The Saudi population's Awareness of Rhinosinusitis Risk Factors and Symptoms Correlates to Covid-19 in Riyadh Region
Author(s): Emad M. Al-Otaibi, Mohammed S. Alfehaid, Meshal S. Ofysan , Turki S. Almutiri , Abdullah N. Al-Khanfoor , Assem M. Al-Qahtani , Bader M. Alotaibi , Abdulrahman S. Binsaleh , Khalid F. Aldawsari , Mohammed H. Karrar Alsharif*
Abstract
Background: Rhinosinusitis is an inflammation of the nasal cavity mucosa and paranasal sinuses; it is considered as one of the most common inflammatory illnesses affecting the population. The study aims to assess the behavior and practices of rhinosinusitis patients and how the level of awareness affects their attitude and, thus, lifestyle. Finally, the study aims to investigate the relationship between RS awareness and Covid-19 among those who have not been infected and had a history of infection. Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional based on an electronic questionnaire for data collection. The study was conducted on 435 individuals, of which 222 were male and 213 were female. However, the study has nine sections and 39 questions; it asked about rhinosinusitis awareness and knowledge and rhinosinusitis symptoms and their relationship with Covid-19 before and after immunization. Results: The study included 176 (40%) participants with a history of rhinosinusitis, and 172 (39.5%) had been infected with Covid-19. Around 16% mentioned their lack of knowledge of the disease. The data also showed a highly significant association in participants with rhinosinusitis history, but no association was found regarding Covid-19 infection. With an exception for etiology, the estimate of effect showed a positive predictive effect on the attitude. The effect was significant with a quality-of-life, manifestations, and management p-value (0.001, 0.001, 0.000), respectively. The overall analysis showed an average level of awareness among the respondents. Conclusions: It could be beneficial to determine the disparities in rhinosinusitis awareness between gender, rhinosinusitis history, and Covid-19 in order to build an effective approach for the people in the targeted locations. Our findings point to the necessity for rhinosinusitis education initiatives encompassing the most affected regions, especially those aimed at persons under the age of 30. It is crucial to emphasize increasing awareness and perception of its etiology, management, and how it influences the attitude, functions, and quality of life.