# Awareness, Knowledge, and Attitudes Toward Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) Among the Population of Al-Baha Region, Saudi Arabia

## TL;DR

This study assesses public awareness and knowledge of venous thromboembolism in Saudi Arabia's Al-Baha region, finding significant gaps and identifying key predictors of better understanding.

## Contribution

The study provides region-specific insights into VTE awareness and identifies demographic and experiential factors influencing knowledge levels in a previously understudied population.

## Key findings

- Only 38.5% of participants demonstrated good knowledge of VTE.
- Personal history of venous thrombosis and knowing someone with VTE were strong predictors of better knowledge.
- Knowledge gaps were observed regarding oral contraceptive-related VTE risk and postoperative prevention.

## Abstract

Introduction: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, yet public understanding of its risk factors, symptoms, and prevention remains limited in many regions of Saudi Arabia. This study aimed to assess awareness, knowledge, and attitudes toward VTE among the general population in the Al-Baha region.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among adults in Al-Baha using a self-administered questionnaire distributed physically and electronically. Convenience sampling was utilized. Data were analyzed using SPSS Version 27 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Variables associated with VTE knowledge in bivariate analysis (p < 0.25) were included in a multivariate logistic regression model to determine independent predictors.

Results: Among 387 participants, only 149 (38.5%) demonstrated good knowledge of VTE. Bivariate analysis showed significant associations between knowledge level and age, sex, personal history of venous thrombosis, and knowing someone with venous thrombosis (all p < 0.05). However, in the multivariate model, only personal history of venous thrombosis (AOR = 4.16; 95% CI: 1.302-13.278), knowing someone with VTE (AOR = 2.86; 95% CI: 1.787-4.590), and sex (AOR = 0.58; 95% CI: 0.351-0.949) remained significant predictors. Notable knowledge gaps were observed regarding oral contraceptive-related VTE risk and postoperative thromboprophylaxis, particularly among recently hospitalized participants.

Conclusion: Public knowledge of VTE in the Al-Baha region was generally inadequate. Personal experience with VTE and female sex were the strongest predictors of better knowledge. Substantial misconceptions and knowledge deficits - especially concerning oral contraceptive pill-related risk and awareness of hospital-provided preventive measures - underscore the need for targeted educational interventions to improve VTE prevention and early recognition.