Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding Helicobacter pylori-induced gastric ulcers and cancers among Saudi residents: a nationwide web-based survey.
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BACKGROUND AND AIM: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is one of the most common worldwide infections that represent a significant public health problem due to its strong connection with chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancers. Few studies have looked at the public's knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding H. pylori infection and its impact, both globally and in Saudi Arabia. The purpose of this study was to evaluate Saudi residents' KAP concerning H. pylori-induced gastric ulcers and malignancies, and to determine the sociodemographic variables affecting awareness and preventive actions. METHODS: The study was conducted using a cross-sectional descriptive design, focusing on Saudi residents in different locations who are at least 18 years old. Informed consent was obtained, and ethical approval of the study was granted by Taif University. An online self-administered questionnaire that underwent expert validation and a pilot study to ensure clarity and reliability was distributed via social media platforms to collect data. The IBM SPSS version 25 was used for statistical analyses, applying both descriptive and inferential approaches at a significance level of p ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 1,482 participants were included in this study. The findings indicated low knowledge and moderate attitude and practice levels, with mean scores of 55.5, 64.2, and 66.7% for knowledge, attitudes and practices, respectively. Several knowledge gaps were identified, particularly regarding treatment, where a considerable proportion of the participants incorrectly believed that antibiotics or antacids alone are sufficient for treatment (48.4 and 45.3%, respectively). Participants generally demonstrated positive attitudes, while practices showed some inappropriate behaviors, including self-medication and early discontinuation of antibiotics. Significant associations were observed between KAP domains and several sociodemographic factors. CONCLUSION: This study underscores the need to improve the KAP regarding H. pylori infection among Saudi residents, as the overall KAP levels were low or moderate emphasizing the need for targeted and effective public health interventions to reduce the burden of H. pylori-related diseases.