Gaps in Community-Based Screening for Non-Communicable Diseases in Saudi Arabia

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, and cancer are the leading cause of mortality globally and in Saudi Arabia, accounting for more than 70% of all deaths. Despite national initiatives offering free preventive services, screening uptake remains low. This study aimed to describe the demographic and clinical characteristics of individuals participating in community-based NCD screening campaigns in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia and to evaluate screening uptake, compliance, and diagnostic outcomes.

A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted among 3106 adults screened at volunteer-driven community campaigns held between January 2023 and December 2024. Screening included anthropometric measurements, blood pressure assessment, and glucose testing, followed by eligibility evaluation for osteoporosis and cancer screening. Uptake and compliance were verified using electronic health records. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were applied.

Participants were 64% male and 36% female, with a mean age of 41.4 ± SD years. Obesity, hypertension, and diabetes were identified in 32%, 31%, and 12% of participants overall. Gender-stratified prevalence showed higher obesity among females at 36% (95% CI 32.3 to 38.1) and higher hypertension and diabetes among males at 36% (95% CI 34.0 to 38.2) and 14% (95% CI 12.1 to 15.2), respectively. Uptake among eligible individuals was 51% for dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), 47% for fecal immunochemical testing (FIT), 43% for Pap smear, and 39% for mammography. Diagnostic findings demonstrated substantial undetected disease burden, including osteoporosis in 41% (95% CI 26.0 to 56.8) of DEXA scans, a FIT positivity rate of 5% (95% CI 1.5 to 10.3), abnormal Pap cytology in 3% (95% CI 1.1 to 7.5), and BI-RADS 0 mammograms in 19% (95% CI 11.9 to 29.5), reflecting incomplete assessments requiring further evaluation.

Community-based campaigns can effectively resolve limited engagement in health promotional activities and detect substantial burdens of undiagnosed NCDs. However, improvements in referral tracking, follow-up systems, and culturally tailored health education are essential to enhance screening compliance and early detection outcomes. These results can be utilized to inform public policies by extending screening services to additional areas, increasing investment in preventive health campaigns, and enhancing the capacity of the health system.