Public Awareness, Knowledge, and Attitude Toward Alzheimer’s Disease in Makkah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disease that slowly deteriorates cognitive function over time. This condition disables the geriatric population worldwide. Knowing its symptoms and presentation could help the general population seek medical attention early.Objective: This study aims to assess the level of awareness, knowledge, and attitude towards Alzheimer’s disease among the general population in Makkah City.Methods: This cross-sectional study employed an online questionnaire distributed randomly in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. A sociodemographic and attitude panel is included under each section of the questionnaire, as well as a knowledge panel based on the Alzheimer's Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS). The knowledge and awareness level regarding Alzheimer’s disease was determined by adding up discrete scores for each correct knowledge item. A participant's awareness level was categorized as poor if their score was less than 60%. Participants whose scores were 60% or higher were considered to have a high level of awarenessResults: A total of 545 participants were investigated; 316 (58%) were females. A range of ages was represented among the participants, from 18 to over 60. Of the study respondents, 68 (12.5%) had an overall good awareness and knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease and its management while 477 (87.5%) had a poor knowledge level. Among divorced/widowed participants, 16.2% had an overall good knowledge level of the disease compared to 8.3% of married respondents with recorded statistical significance (P=.049). Also, 20.4% of those with relatives diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease had good knowledge of the disease versus 10.7% of others without (P=.009).Conclusion: According to the results, there is a lack of awareness and knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease. This study suggests increasing public awareness and knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease through campaigns and public education so that the disease is detected earlier.