# Assessment of Primary Health Care Physicians’ Awareness, Knowledge, and Practice of Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Jazan, Saudi Arabia

## TL;DR

This study found that many primary care doctors in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, lack sufficient knowledge about familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic condition linked to early heart disease.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the awareness and knowledge gaps of FH among primary care physicians in a specific region of Saudi Arabia.

## Key findings

- Only 22% of physicians knew the prevalence of FH, and 12% understood its cardiovascular risk.
- Just 36.6% of physicians demonstrated acceptable FH-related knowledge.
- No significant associations were found between knowledge levels and demographic factors.

## Abstract

Introduction

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a prevalent genetic disorder that predisposes affected individuals to premature coronary artery disease (CAD). Despite its clinical significance, global studies have revealed major deficits in awareness and knowledge among healthcare providers. This study aimed to assess the awareness, knowledge, and practices regarding FH among family physicians in primary health care centers in the Jazan region, Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among family physicians working at primary care centers in Jazan. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling using a validated, self-administered online questionnaire adapted from previous studies. The questionnaire addressed demographics, knowledge, awareness, and clinical practices related to FH. A p-value < 0.05 is considered statistically significant.

Results

The study included 123 participants, with a response rate of 62.1%. Most were male, 81 (66%), and 77 (64%) had ≤ 5 years of experience. A total of 102 (83%) correctly defined FH, while only 27 (22%) knew its prevalence. Knowledge of inheritance and cardiovascular risk was accurate in 37 (30%) and 15 (12%) participants, respectively. Cascade screening awareness was reported by 78 (63%), and 81 (66%) were aware of referral centers. Only 45 (36.6%) demonstrated acceptable knowledge. No significant associations were found between knowledge levels and demographic factors.

Conclusion

There is a substantial deficiency in FH-related knowledge among primary care physicians in Jazan. Targeted educational initiatives and continuous professional development are critically needed to enhance FH recognition and management in primary care settings.