Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the level of awareness, knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices regarding hernias among adults residing in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among adults aged ≥18 years residing in the Jazan region, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a validated self-administered online questionnaire distributed through social media platforms.
Results: A total of 515 participants were included (509 with complete data for analysis), with a mean age of 31.3 ± 11.9 years. Overall, participants demonstrated moderate but insufficient hernia knowledge. While 62.1% correctly identified the definition of hernia and 92.1% recognized the existence of multiple hernia types, only 30.6% correctly identified the inguinal region as the most common site, and 15.5% recognized strangulation as the most serious complication. Most participants reported positive healthcare-seeking attitudes, with 73.7% indicating they would seek immediate medical care upon noticing a hernia and 91.6% preferring consultation with healthcare professionals. However, misconceptions persisted, as 20.6% believed hernia could be treated with massage or herbal remedies, and 17.1% believed it could resolve spontaneously. Significant predictors of adequate knowledge included younger age, healthcare occupation (OR = 2.97, 95% CI: 1.27-6.94), and higher income levels.
Conclusion: Overall, moderate but insufficient awareness of hernia was observed among adults in the Jazan region, but there was a significant lack of knowledge about the complications and management of a hernia. Targeted educational interventions are needed to improve public understanding and promote early health care-seeking behavior.

Key words: Cross-sectional studies, health literacy, hernia, inguinal hernia, risk factors, Saudi Arabia