Public Awareness and Knowledge of Sepsis: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Adults in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition characterized by a dysregulated response to infection; however, the understanding in the general population is low or lacking especially in regions like Saudi Arabia where such situations are sparse. The present study strives to assess the general awareness and knowledge of sepsis among the adult Saudi population and aims to identify the potential determinants of such awareness.

Methods: It is a cross-sectional research study. The present study was able to solicit data with a time frame from July to November 2024 through an online and selfadministered survey instrument that can be circulated over social media sites. Sample criteria included participants that were over 18 years of age and resided in Saudi Arabia. The data were analyzed with reference to socio demographic, level of prevalence and knowledge about sepsis using e-SPSS.

Results: Out of 544 respondents, only 32% reported prior awareness of sepsis, with 19.8% indicating good knowledge. The most well-known symptoms were fever (58.6%) and pain (44.3%), but little was known about other symptoms and their causes. Age, educational attainment, and work in healthcare were among the demographic variables that were substantially linked to increased awareness.

Conclusion: The research provides evidence that a substantial number of the adult population in Saudi Arabia are not aware and do not have sufficient knowledge of sepsis. The data points to the fact that people in Saudi Arabia are in dire need of education on sepsis to improve recognition of this diagnosis and understanding of its significance, aiming at bettering the outcomes and emergence

Highlights: This study assesses adult public awareness and knowledge of sepsis in Saudi Arabia. The results indicate an extremely low awareness level, with only 32% of participants aware of sepsis and even fewer demonstrating good knowledge. Statistically significant differences were observed based on education level, age, and healthcare work status. The findings suggest an urgent need for targeted public health interventions to enhance early detection and improve sepsis knowledge among Saudi adults.