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Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Strep Throat and Rheumatic Fever: A Cross-Sectional Study Among the United Arab
Ahmad Hisham Al-Anoud1, Mawiah Zhour Adi1, Bayan Bozalasal1
1Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
Avicenna Journal of Medicine
|July 11, 2026
Summary
Public awareness of strep throat and rheumatic fever (RF) is low in the UAE. This study highlights the urgent need for targeted health campaigns to improve knowledge and reduce RF and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) burden.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Health Awareness
Background:
- Group A Streptococcus pharyngitis (strep throat) can lead to serious conditions like rheumatic fever (RF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD).
- Limited data exists on public awareness of these conditions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the knowledge and attitudes of UAE residents regarding strep throat and RF.
- To identify factors influencing public understanding of these health concerns.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 462 adults (≥18 years) in the UAE.
- A 28-item questionnaire was distributed via social media, with data analyzed using SPSS.
Main Results:
- A significant lack of awareness was found, with 60.6% never hearing of strep throat and only 39.0% linking it to RF.
- Common misconceptions included the belief that cold water causes sore throat (47.4%) and frequent self-medication with antibiotics.
- Knowledge scores were low (median -1), with females, healthcare workers, and those with comorbidities showing higher scores.
Conclusions:
- Public knowledge of strep throat and RF in the UAE is limited, coupled with inappropriate antibiotic use.
- Targeted public health awareness campaigns are essential to correct misconceptions and promote timely healthcare seeking.
- Improving awareness can help mitigate the impact of RF and RHD in the region.
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