PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE TOWARDS DIETARY FACTORS PREVENTING AND PROMOTING KIDNEY STONES IN KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

Authors

  • Muath A. Alammar, Ghazi M. Alotaibi, Rashed K. Alrashed, Raghad T. Fakhorji, Ruba E. Alsobhi, Anas A. Bahassan, Abdullah O. Alzahrani, Nuha M. Almani, Wasan A. Madkhali, Umar A. Abdul Hai, Khames T. Alzahrani Author

Abstract

Background: This article discusses the public knowledge of dietary factors that affect the formation of kidney stones, which is one of the most common urological disorders that have several categories based on their chemical makeup. Variations in kidney stone epidemiology around the world are related to climate, socio-economic status, and geographic location. This study aimed to assess public knowledge of dietary factors influences kidney stones in Saudi Arabia. Methods:  The cross-sectional study is going to take place in Saudi Arabia from July to December 2024.  A sample recruiting strategy was on social media apps to find people from all around Saudi Arabia. We have included Saudi population from the age of 18 years to 60 years who could speak Arabic and agree to participate in the study. population younger than 18 years old or above than 60 years old, those who can’t speak Arabic and who didn’t agree. Sample size was determined that 384 was the sample size with an indicator percentage of 0.50, a margin of error of 5%, and a confidence interval (CI) of 95%. Results: Regarding the public knowledge of dietary factors influencing kidney stones. A significant majority (80.0%) reported no chronic diseases, although diabetes and high blood pressure were common among the 20.0% with chronic conditions. The prevalence of kidney stones was low, with only 5.9% having a history of them. Interestingly, while about half of the participants claimed to have received information on preventing kidney stones, 34.0% had not, and sources varied, with social media being prominent. Knowledge regarding dietary influences was mixed; 70% recognized that their diet could impact stone formation, and a high percentage acknowledged the benefits of adequate water intake (88.2%) and the risks associated with salt consumption (83.3%). However, there was confusion over the effects of meat and dairy, with many unsure of their roles. Alarmingly, 75.3% of respondents exhibited poor knowledge of dietary factors, highlighting a significant awareness gap. Additionally, the study found that knowledge levels correlated with age, educational attainment, and monthly income, but did not significantly relate to gender, residential region, chronic diseases, or personal history of kidney stones. Conclusion: The study highlighted a significant gap in public knowledge regarding dietary factors influencing kidney stone formation in Saudi Arabia, where 75.3% of participants exhibited poor understanding of these critical aspects. Despite 70% recognizing the potential impact of diet on stone risk and 88.2% acknowledging the benefits of adequate hydration, confusion persists over the roles of meat and dairy in kidney stone development. The low prevalence of kidney stones reported (5.9%) contrasts sharply with the high awareness gap and insufficient nutritional counseling, emphasizing the necessity for targeted public health initiatives and educational programs. The study demonstrates a clear correlation between knowledge levels and demographic factors such as age and educational attainment, indicating that tailored interventions may further enhance understanding and preventive efforts.

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Published

2025-01-27

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Articles

How to Cite

PUBLIC KNOWLEDGE TOWARDS DIETARY FACTORS PREVENTING AND PROMOTING KIDNEY STONES IN KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA. (2025). CAHIERS MAGELLANES-NS, 1383-1397. https://magellanes.com/index.php/CMN/article/view/1302