Unveiling Heart Health: A National Sociodemographic Exploration of Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Prevention

Razan Adel Gobis1, Lin Mazen Jolha1, Hala Algazzawi1

  • 1Department of General Medicine, Batterjee Medical College, Jeddah, SAU.

Cureus
|October 27, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Saudi Arabian public shows moderate knowledge but low attitude and practice regarding cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Targeted health strategies are needed to improve CVD awareness and promote heart-healthy behaviors.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Cardiology
  • Health Education

Background:

  • Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of death globally and in Saudi Arabia.
  • Existing research in Saudi Arabia focuses on CVD incidence, not public knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP).
  • Understanding public KAP is crucial for developing effective cardiovascular health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the public's knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in Saudi Arabia.
  • To identify misconceptions and knowledge gaps related to CVDs and their risk factors.
  • To inform the development of targeted public health and educational programs.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional observational study was conducted across Saudi Arabia.
  • A questionnaire adapted from a previous study was used to collect data.
  • 1,836 participants were surveyed to evaluate their KAP on CVDs.

Main Results:

  • Overall good KAP scores were observed in 60.0% for knowledge, 26.6% for attitude, and 9.5% for practice.
  • Significant variations in KAP scores were noted across different sociodemographic groups.
  • The study identified moderate knowledge levels coupled with low attitude and practice scores.

Conclusions:

  • The Saudi public demonstrates moderate knowledge but lags in attitude and practice concerning cardiovascular health.
  • There is a clear need for enhanced public health strategies and educational initiatives.
  • Interventions should focus on improving CVD-related knowledge, fostering positive attitudes, and promoting heart-healthy practices.

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