Abstract

Author(s):Mohammed Hasan Bangash, Rothaina Jamal Saeedi and Wejdan A. Al-Ghamdi

Objective: The aims of this study are to assess the Saudi public’s knowledge of the spinal cord injuries (SCI) and to establish a knowledge-based risk prediction scoring system. Methods: This cross-sectional survey was conducted between October 2016 and February 2017 using a self-administered questionnaire that was distributed electronically through social media. The questionnaire was designed to assess the Saudi public’s knowledge of different aspects of SCI. Results: A total of 501 participants completed the survey. Most of the participants were knowledgeable about the basic structures of the spine; however, less than half (45.9%) knew about the clinical features of SCI. Males were significantly at a higher risk for SCI (odds ratio [OR] 1.98, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.15-3.39, p=0.012). Additionally, males were more likely to provide incorrect answers to the question that assessed participants’ knowledge of the loss of motor and sensory functions (OR 3.54, 95% CI 1.86-6.73, p=0.001). The respondents’ level of education was significantly associated with their knowledge of the anatomy of the spine. Participants who had completed only primary and secondary school were less likely to know the basic structure of the spine (p=0.019), the causes of SCI (p<0.001), and the symptoms of SCI (p=0.010). a knowledge-based spine injury risk prediction scoring system was developed. Conclusion: Younger males lacked knowledge of spinal cord structure and injury. The spinal injury risk prediction scoring system may be used and needs further evaluations.

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