ABSTRACT
Background Epistaxis, or nosebleeds, is a widespread medical condition that can be effectively managed with appropriate first aid. Understanding the general public's knowledge and practices about this is crucial. Objectives This study sought to evaluate the awareness and practice regarding first aid for epistaxis within the general population of the Jazan region in Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional survey was administered from April through June 2023, using a questionnaire that covered sociodemographic factors, knowledge of epistaxis, first aid practices for epistaxis, and any previous training received. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), with chi-square tests to evaluate the variables' associations. Results The questionnaire was completed by 622 participants, predominantly females, Saudis, and individuals from the age group of 18 to 25 years. It was found that 60% of the participants had experienced epistaxis, but only 52% had received prior first aid training. Although the majority (91.8%) accurately defined epistaxis, a mere 40.8% correctly identified all the steps for first aid management of epistaxis. There was a notable insufficiency in understanding the causes, risk factors, and appropriate first aid steps. Participants' knowledge was evenly split, with approximately half exhibiting low knowledge (49.70%) and the remainder showing high knowledge (50.30%). Certain sociodemographic factors such as older age (p=0.028), Saudi nationality (p=0.045), and higher education (p=0.001) were linked with more experiences of epistaxis. Conversely, younger age (p=0.002), female gender (p=0.036), single status (p=0.001), prior experience with epistaxis (p=0.001), and higher overall knowledge (p=0.001) were associated with a higher likelihood of having received first aid training. Conclusions The study reveals significant gaps in the knowledge and practices of first aid for epistaxis among the general population in the Jazan region. Public awareness campaigns and educational programs are urgently needed, particularly for specific groups. Enhancing first aid knowledge could help alleviate the impacts of epistaxis. Further research is required to develop effective educational interventions.
ABSTRACT
Purpose: This study aims to measure the knowledge and practices of adults in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia concerning routine medical checkups. Methods: This study used a cross-sectional design that targeted adults in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. The data was collected via self-administered questionnaires, with participants being approached in online settings. The questionnaires measured participant demographics, knowledge, and practice of routine medical checkups as well as their response to the Know Your Numbers campaign services initiative from the Saudi Ministry of Health. A chi-square test was used to detect statistically significant differences between the levels of knowledge and practice according to the measured demographic characteristics. Results: A total of 516 persons participated in this study. The mean age of the participants was 25 years; 54.7% were female. The median level of knowledge was 3 (out of 9), varying between 0 and 9. The recruited sample exhibited average knowledge of parameters used to classify levels of blood glucose, blood pressure, body mass index, and blood lipids, but low knowledge regarding the recommended age to begin screening for several chronic diseases. Factors associated with levels of knowledge were gender, age, education level, and employment (p value < 0.05). However, a history of chronic disease was the only factor associated with the practice of routine medical checkups (p value 0.023). Finally, less than 5% of this sample reported their participation in the Know Your Numbers campaign. Conclusion: Attending routine medical checkups is uncommon and only motivated by the existence of a diagnosed medical condition. Furthermore, this study found low utilization of the Know Your Numbers campaign services. This suggests a need for greater emphasis on increasing awareness of routine medical checkups among adults in the Jazan region.
