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Knowledge and awareness of ischemic heart disease among primary health-care patients in Riyadh hospitals

Objectives: This study aims to assess the level of knowledge and awareness about ischemic heart disease (IHD), specifically its warning symptoms and risk factors, among primary health-care (PHC) patients in Riyadh hospitals. Methods: We conducted an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study in PHC clinics across four main public hospitals in Riyadh from October 2014 to April 2015. Convenience sampling was used to select 162 individuals. The level of knowledge was assessed using a new structured, self-administered questionnaire. Results: Level of knowledge regarding IHD in Riyadh hospitals (King Khalid University Hospital, Al-Iman General Hospital, King Salman Hospital, and King Abdulaziz Medical City) was 69%, 29%, 56%, and 58%, respectively. The level of education played a significant role, as participants with bachelor's and advanced degrees exhibited greater knowledge. Dyspnea was the most frequently cited symptom, while smoking and obesity were the most frequently identified risk factors. Interestingly, only 32% of participants recognized family history as a risk factor. Conclusions: This study highlighted the inadequate knowledge about IHD among PHC patients in Riyadh hospitals. The demographic characteristics had a significant effect on the level of knowledge. This study recommends health-care systems in Saudi Arabia to formulate strategies for IHD awareness.