Awareness of Hepatitis C Among the General Population of Riyadh, KSA, in 2023: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background Hepatitis C, a highly contagious viral infection transmitted through blood-to-blood contact, poses a significant threat to public health owing to its potential to induce extensive liver damage, leading to the development of life-threatening conditions such as liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, commonly known as liver cancer. Objective This cross-sectional study aims to assess the level of awareness of hepatitis C among the general population in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Methodology The study was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A national cross-sectional survey was conducted using a predesigned self-administered validated electronic questionnaire. The questionnaire was distributed electronically to the general population from April to September 2023. Results Out of the 800 participants, most were females (472, 59%), and the largest age group was between 23 and 29 years old (305, 38.1%). Saudi Arabians constituted the highest proportion of participants (609, 76.1%), and most participants were single (437, 54.6%). In terms of occupational status, 288 (36%) worked in occupations not listed. The study found that 463 (57.9%) participants had a low level of awareness about the global prevalence of hepatitis C. Additionally, 489 (61.1%) were aware that hepatitis C can cause both acute and chronic hepatitis, and 441 (55.1%) knew that most infected patients may develop chronic hepatitis. A majority (484, 60.5%) were aware of the importance of washing with soap and water after an accidental needle stick injury. Most participants (574, 71.8%) were aware of the common modes of hepatitis C transmission, such as unsterilized instruments, needle stick injuries, and sharing contaminated needles during drug use. Furthermore, 548 (73%) were aware of the transmission risk through unscreened blood transfusion, and 561 (70.1%) were aware of the higher risk of infection for individuals with multiple sexual partners. Conclusion The study highlights a low level of awareness among participants regarding the treatment and prevention of hepatitis C. To address the low level of awareness regarding the treatment and prevention of hepatitis C, targeted strategies and interventions are needed. This includes the development and implementation of public awareness campaigns, creation of informative educational materials, specialized training programs for healthcare professionals, establishment of support groups and counseling services for individuals living with hepatitis C, and continued support for research efforts and knowledge dissemination. By increasing awareness about hepatitis C, its treatment, and prevention, we can improve outcomes for individuals affected by the disease and reduce its overall burden on communities.