ABSTRACT
Background: nephrolithiasis is an extremely common disorder in Saudi Arabia. Certain dietary changes and practices can influence the development of renal stones
Aim of the work: the aim of this study was to evaluate the awareness about the symptoms and proper diet of renal stones among general population of Albaha city in Saudi Arabia
Methods: a questionnaire was distributed among the general public in Albaha City, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire was consisted of two sections: section 1 included personal data and section 2 explored the awareness and knowledge about the most common symptoms and complications of renal stones
Results: 417 participants were recruited. Most of the respondents were females, aged between 34 to 49 years, married and had high education. About one third of respondents had previous information about renal stones. Nearly half the respondents recognized only one risk factor and only one identified all the eight factors listed [0.2%]. There was lack of knowledge about some symptoms and false beliefs about some foods [fish and sea food, greens and spinach]
Conclusion: some misconceptions were revealed about risk factors and symptoms of renal stones. There was a lack of sufficient knowledge about the role of diet in medical management of renal stones. Educational programs should focus on these points of defect in knowledge and attitude. We recommended providing the health information concerning renal stone disease through the Internet [being the source of information used by most participants] and ensuring the inclusion of these information in the routine instructions and health education of patients