KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS LEVEL ABOUT DEVELOPMENTAL DYSPLASIA OF THE HIP AMONG THE ADULT SAUDI POPULATION
Abstract
Background: Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is the most prevalent congenital orthopedic issue. Factors like prenatal breech presentation, familial history, and female gender contribute to its occurrence. Early screening and detection of hip structural abnormalities are crucial to improve outcomes and reduce problems related to (DDH). The study aimed to assess the level of knowledge about developmental dysplasia of the hip among the Saudi population. Methodology: This cross- sectional study used convenience sampling to gather data from individuals spread throughout several locations in Saudi Arabia between July to December 2024. The study includes Saudi Arabian adults aged 18 years and above. Regardless of their existing knowledge or awareness of (DDH), participants were selected based only on their willingness to participate and complete questionnaires. The study excluded Saudi citizens under 18 years old and non-Saudi residents of Saudi Arabia. The sample size required to get a precision of 5% at a 95% confidence level is at least 385, according to calculations made using Raosoft's sample size calculator tailored for the Saudi Arabian population. Results: The purpose of this study was to study the level of knowledge of the Saudi population regarding developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), 554 participants majority being young adults average age 30.7 years old with majority being females (64.4%). Sixty one percent had no awareness of DDH, an alarming lack of knowledge which could prevent early diagnosis and treatment. About 39 percent said they had some knowledge, nearly 40 percent were unclear on what it meant. Additionally, 65.5% were uncertain if DDH is equal in impact between genders, 55.4% are undecided on the impact of swaddling and 24.8% are convinced that swinging a baby strides out the effects of DDH. The results showed only 3.2 per cent had high knowledge, a further 72.2 per cent had low awareness – evidence that there are important educational initiatives required. Conclusion: The study emphasizes that almost 60 percent of respondents were oblivious to the condition known as developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) and its prevalent risk factors. Despite the relative education of their demographic, the findings on this suggest considerable knowledge gaps, especially for swaddling implications and DDH epidemiology.