Assessing Alzheimer’s disease knowledge in the Syrian population using the ADKS: A cross-sectional study

Alzheimer disease (AD), a leading neurodegenerative disorder, disproportionately affects women and presents increasing global socioeconomic challenges. Despite growing identification of modifiable risk factors, public knowledge about AD's causes and progression remains limited in many regions. This study assesses AD knowledge among Syrian adults using the Alzheimer Disease Knowledge Scale (ADKS) and examines demographic correlations. This study evaluates the level of AD knowledge in the Syrian population and identify demographic factors associated with knowledge levels. A cross-sectional study was conducted from June to August 2024 using the validated Arabic version of the ADKS. The questionnaire (30 true/false items across 7 domains) was distributed electronically to Syrian adults (≥18 years). Descriptive statistics, t tests, 1-way analysis of variance, Pearson correlation, and Welch t test were performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 27. Ethical approval was granted by Aleppo University (No. 2408), and informed consent was obtained. A total of 685 participants responded (69.5% aged 18-25; 72.3% university-educated). While knowledge was high in domains related to life impact and treatment, substantial gaps were observed in understanding preventive drugs (20.4% correct) and caregiving strategies (11.1%). Higher knowledge scores were significantly associated with higher education levels, accessing healthcare-related information, and having relatives with AD (P < .001). This first Syrian study utilizing the ADKS revealed moderate public knowledge of AD (mean score: 18.79/30). Key knowledge gaps in caregiving and treatment underscore the need for targeted educational campaigns. Outreach led by healthcare professionals is essential to enhance awareness, promote early diagnosis, and support caregivers of individuals with AD.