Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate general public awareness and knowledge of dysphagia and its associated causes among the general populace in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Methods: This cross-sectional study recruited participants from public areas of Riyadh. Adults aged over the age of 18 years, who did not report dysphagia to the researcher, were all included in the study. Data were collected with a valid Arabic questionnaire, which determined knowledge regarding terminology, causes, symptoms, treatment, consequences, and attitude toward dysphagia.
Results: A total of 407 participants were included (mean age 38.5 ± 16.3 years; 65.1% male). Overall, 75.7% of the participants stated that dysphagia is defined as difficulty swallowing, although 19.2% of the participants were not aware of the term at all. While 62.9% of the participants displayed good knowledge, there were many misconceptions regarding treatment and complications. Little awareness was present regarding the role of speech-language pathologists in the management of dysphagia (26% of the participants). Knowledge levels were statistically significantly higher in female participants and participants who were free of comorbidities (p-values = 0.003 and 0.016, respectively).
Conclusion: General public awareness of dysphagia in Riyadh was moderate, with much room for improvement in knowledge of treatment and the consequences of dysphagia. There is a need for national awareness campaigns and education using multidisciplinary programs to enhance early awareness and improve health outcomes for the dysphagic population.

Key words: Knowledge, dysphagia, causes, general public, Saudi Arabia