Background: Hallux valgus (HV) is a common structural foot deformity that manifests as a medial bony expansion of the first metatarsal head and occurs when the hallux deviates more than 15° degrees toward the lesser toes concerning the first metatarsal bone. This study aims to assess the prevalence, knowledge, and awareness of HV among the general population in Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was done based on an online questionnaire initiated after consultation with the field experts. The questionnaire of this study included participants’ demographic data, medical history, the shape of the foot, wearing habits, and awareness of HV.
Results: A total of 3,199 eligible participants completed the study questionnaire. Participants’ ages ranged from 18 to 60 years, with a mean age of 28.3 ± 13.9. The exact of 2,044 (63.9%) are females. About 37.2% of the study participants had HV by some degree which was unilateral among 7.9% of them and bilateral among 29.3%. A total of 1,521 (47.5%) respondents had an overall good awareness level of HV, while 1,678 (52.5%) had an overall poor awareness level. Young age, female gender, high education, and having more severe HV were associated with higher awareness levels (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: In conclusion, the study revealed that nearly one-third of the Saudi population complained of HV deformity, which was mainly bilateral with mild degrees. Also, the study showed that about half of the participants were knowledgeable regarding HV, mainly for preventive measures and clinical presentation.
Key words: Hallux valgus, foot deformity, prevalence, awareness, knowledge, population, Saudi Arabia
|
