Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and public awareness of atrial fibrillation (AF) and stroke prevention (SP) among adults in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among adults aged 18 years and older in Makkah between April 2025 and April 2026. Data were collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire based on the Knowledge of Atrial Fibrillation and Stroke Prevention Questionnaire (KAFSP-Q). Sociodemographic characteristics and knowledge of AF, anticoagulation therapy, stroke symptoms, stroke risk factors, and SP were assessed.
Results: A total of 504 participants were included. Overall, 50.6% had good knowledge of AF and stroke prevention, whereas 49.4% had poor knowledge. Although 67.3% knew that AF can cause stroke and 92.9% recognized its increased stroke risk, awareness of AF itself and the purpose of anticoagulation therapy was limited. Younger age, female sex, Saudi nationality, university education, single marital status, and student status were significantly associated with higher knowledge.
Conclusion: Nearly half of the participants demonstrated good knowledge of AF and stroke prevention, but important gaps remain in awareness of AF, anticoagulation therapy, and some stroke risk factors. Targeted educational interventions for older adults, men, non-Saudis, and people with lower education are recommended to improve awareness and reduce AF-related stroke in this population and support earlier prevention efforts.

Key words: Stroke, atrial fibrillation, cross-sectional study, knowledge, Makkah, prevention, Saudi Arabia