Public Awareness of Rheumatoid Arthritis as a Genetically Influenced Autoimmune Disease: A Population-Based Study in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This cross-sectional study assessed public awareness of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its risk factors among 537 adults in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in 2022. Using a structured questionnaire, the researchers evaluated participants' general knowledge about RA, awareness of signs and symptoms, and lifestyle practices. Results revealed significant knowledge deficits, with 67.6% of participants demonstrating inadequate general knowledge about RA and 58.8% showing inadequate understanding of its signs and symptoms. Physical exercise practices were found to be highly inadequate among 81.2% of participants. Although no significant associations were found between demographic characteristics (gender, education, occupation, nationality, BMI) and general knowledge, a significant relationship was observed between age and knowledge of signs and symptoms (p=0.025), with participants over 40 years showing better awareness. The findings highlight the need for enhanced public education programs about RA, particularly targeting individuals in high-risk age groups. This research underscores the importance of developing comprehensive awareness initiatives to improve early recognition, management, and quality of life outcomes for individuals with RA in Saudi Arabia.