# Perceptions of persistent idiopathic facial pain: a comprehensive study of adults in Ha’il city, Saudi Arabia

## TL;DR

This study explores how people in Ha'il, Saudi Arabia understand persistent idiopathic facial pain and finds that knowledge is moderate, with gender influencing perceptions.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into public perceptions of PIFP in a specific cultural and geographic context.

## Key findings

- Respondents showed moderate knowledge of PIFP, with 51.24% correct responses.
- Gender significantly influenced perceptions, with men more likely to downplay PIFP's significance.
- Educational and demographic factors like age and occupation had minimal impact on knowledge or attitudes.

## Abstract

Background: Persistent idiopathic facial pain (PIFP) is a complex
condition characterized by chronic, unexplained facial pain that significantly
impacts patients’ quality of life and remains poorly understood by the general
public. This research aimed to assess the knowledge and understanding of PIFP
among the general population of Ha’il, Saudi Arabia. Methods: This
cross-sectional study examined Ha’il residents’ attitudes and levels of knowledge
regarding PIFP and investigated the associated factors. Anonymised surveys were
distributed to 350 respondents between November 2023 and March 2024. The original
survey draft was based on a combination of previously published research, the
Facial Pain Association, and previously validated questionnaires addressing
similar objectives. A standardised survey scheme was designed, pre-coded and
validated. The refined survey instrument was then transformed into an online
questionnaire using Google Survey© 2023 and distributed.
Results: In total, 254 respondents filled out the survey. The chi-square
test was utilised to assess knowledge and attitudes in relation to participants’
sociodemographic characteristics. Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient
(p < 0.05), odds ratios and confidence intervals were calculated to
assess the relationship between attitudes and knowledge. Binary logistic
regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of high knowledge levels
and positive attitudes. The participants showed moderate knowledge of PIFP, with
51.24% correct responses. Notably, 96.90% identified dental issues, infections
and nerve abnormalities as key factors. Gender influenced perceptions, with
30.9% of women and 45.9% of men downplaying PIFP’s significance, while age,
education and occupation had minimal impact (p > 0.05).
Conclusions: This study emphasises the critical need for targeted
educational programs to address misconceptions and information gaps around PIFP.
The information gained highlights the need for an advanced approach to health
education and communication that is tailored to the unique cultural and
demographic characteristics of Ha’il, Saudi Arabia.