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Knowledge assessment of hepatitis C patients regarding their disease at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: A retrospective study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: A BSTRACT Introduction: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) remains a significant global health challenge, with notable gaps in patient knowledge contributing to underdiagnosis and stigmatization. In Saudi Arabia, despite a seroprevalence of 1.1–1.7%, awareness remains low, particularly among high-risk groups. This study assessed HCV knowledge among patients at King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to identify unmet educational needs and inform targeted interventions. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 132 adult HCV patients (response rate: 85.7%) attending outpatient clinics in 2013. Data were collected via a validated 30-item questionnaire administered through face-to-face interviews (70%) or telephone (30%). The tool evaluated socio-demographic factors and HCV knowledge domains (transmission, prevention, treatment, and complications). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20, with significance set at P < 0.05. Results: Only 54% of participants answered HCV-related questions correctly, with a mean score of 15.1 ± 5.6 (out of 28). Married individuals and middle-aged participants (46–55 years) scored significantly higher ( P = 0.002 and P = 0.04, respectively). Notably, 68% reported no physician counseling, and the internet was the primary information source (43%). No significant differences were observed by gender, nationality, or education level (* P * > 0.05). Conclusion: The study highlights critical gaps in HCV knowledge among KAUH patients, emphasizing the need for structured education programs, enhanced physician-patient communication, and verified digital health resources. Addressing these gaps is vital to achieving Saudi Arabia’s HCV elimination goals under the 2030 Health Transformation Program.

Source: Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care

DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_940_25

Author: Zekra Bazarah

Institutions: King Abdulaziz University, King Abdul Aziz University Hospital, King Abdulaziz Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Hepatitis C virus research

Subfield: Hepatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $450