Cognizance of hernia risk factors among adult in northern region, Saudi Arabia: A cross sectional study

Objective: Global public awareness on the risk factors of abdominal wall hernia is limited, this is particularly scanty in our region. The purpose of this study is to examine the knowledge and awareness about risk factors of abdominal wall hernia among the citizens of the northern regions, in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Method: In this cross-sectional, community-based study 1037 citizens were surveyed using an online questionnaire composed of 15 questions. Result: About one-third (34.2%, n=355) had a good knowledge about hernia. However, more than half of the participants (54.3%, n = 563) showed poor level of knowledge, while only (13%, n=135) had a satisfactory level of knowledge about hernia. Satisfactory knowledge was observed in the age group between 18-25 years (18.1%, n = 365) compared to the other aged groups. Conclusion: There was significant incognizance about hernia among older populations of Northern regions. Future studies on adult education and public awareness, is imperative.