Dizziness in Saudi Arabia: An epidemiologic study.
Ahmad A Alharbi1, Maryam E Alshammari2, Abdulaziz A Albalwi1
1Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Frontiers in Neurology
|April 24, 2023
Summary
Dizziness is a common health issue in Saudi Arabia, affecting nearly half of adults surveyed. Age and gender are significant factors, with middle-aged adults and men reporting dizziness more frequently.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Dizziness is a frequent and recurrent complaint among adults seeking clinical care.
- The prevalence and associated factors of dizziness in Saudi Arabia remain largely uncharacterized.
- Understanding dizziness epidemiology is crucial for public health initiatives and patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of dizziness in a large Saudi Arabian population sample.
- To identify demographic and clinical correlates associated with dizziness.
- To provide data for future preventive strategies and interventions.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study utilizing an electronic survey distributed via social media.
- 1,478 adult respondents (≥18 years) from five regions of Saudi Arabia completed the survey.
- Statistical analyses included t-tests, chi-square tests, and multiple logistic regression.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of dizziness was 42.97% among the surveyed Saudi adults.
- Women were less likely to report dizziness than men (OR=0.65).
- Middle-aged adults (46-55 years) showed a higher likelihood of reporting dizziness compared to older adults (>65 years).
- Specific dizziness symptoms varied by age, with visual disturbances in younger adults and imbalance in older adults.
Conclusions:
- Dizziness is a prevalent health concern within the Saudi Arabian population.
- Age and gender are significant correlates of dizziness.
- Further research into risk factors and mechanisms is needed to inform prevention of falls and improve quality of life.
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