The general population's knowledge and awareness of smoking as a risk factor for urological diseases in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: In Saudi Arabia, smoking is a significant public health concern. Cigarette smoking is the leading preventable cause of urinary bladder cancer and increases the risk of prostatic and renal malignancies. There have been a limited number of studies conducted on this topic in Saudi Arabia, especially in the Western Region. Objectives: The current study aims to assess the knowledge and awareness of the general population in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia regarding smoking as a risk factor for urological diseases. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and October 2023, employing an online survey self-administered and disseminated through social media platforms. A method of sampling by convenience was utilized to enlist the participants for the study. Following approval from an Institutional Review Board, information was gathered from Saudi Arabian citizens and residents aged 18 or older residing in the western region. Results: The study included a total of 850 individuals. Based on the gender distribution, 67% of the individuals were male, while 33% were female. The participants were surveyed regarding their smoking habits; out of the total, 70% identified as non-smokers, 18% identified as smokers, and 12% identified as ex-smokers. 37% of respondents acknowledged that smoking posed a risk for bladder cancer, while 36.8% acknowledged that smoking posed a risk for kidney cancer. Gender exhibited a notable correlation with kidney cancer and erectile dysfunction (p < 0.05). Moreover, there was a strong correlation between smoking status and erectile dysfunction (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The study revealed that only a small proportion of participants have sufficient knowledge of the association between smoking and the heightened susceptibility to kidney and bladder cancer. Therefore, it is necessary to increase awareness through the implementation of campaigns and the utilization of social media channels.