Population awareness about systemic lupus erythematosus in the Al-Qassim region, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: The objective was to evaluate the level of awareness regarding systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) among the general population in the Al-Qassim region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).Methods: This was a cross-sectional study carried out between March and April 2021 and conducted among the general population at Al-Qassim region, KSA. A valid pre-tested electronic questionnaire was distributed through social media among the targeted population that included socio-demographic characteristics and questionnaires measuring awareness, attitude and their belief about SLE. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26.Results: A total of 377 participants were enrolled. The most common age group was more than 40 years old (39%), with slightly females (52.5%) than males. The prevalence of participants who had heard about SLE was 52.5%. Of those who have heard about SLE, a poor level of awareness was detected among 69.2% of participants, while 30.8% were at a good level. Factors associated with an increased level of awareness were having diagnosed been with SLE and those who indicated their doctor as their sources of SLE information.Conclusions: The awareness of the general population in the Al-Qassim region regarding SLE was insufficient. Obtaining SLE information from their doctor and having been diagnosed with SLE are associated with better awareness. We propose that awareness campaigns should be promoted.