Knowledge and Awareness About the Risk Factors of Urolithiasis Among the General Population in Makkah, Saudi Arabia

Abdullah Krenshi,1 Walid Alkarmo,1 Aseel Omar Banasir,1 Ibrahim Klantan,1 Abdulaziz Nasir Alrougi,1 Mustafa Madani,1 Fahd Almalki,2 Laila A Alharbi,2 Manal E Alotaibi2 1College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia; 2Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi ArabiaCorrespondence: Abdullah Krenshi, College of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Ramadan Saad Al Badri street, Makkah, 24323, Saudi Arabia, Tel +966567253773, Email [email protected]: Stones in the urinary tract, or urolithiasis, are common and have significant health and economic impacts. In Saudi Arabia, the prevalence is around 9.1%, with limited knowledge about its risk factors and prevention. The United Arab Emirates has similarly high rates, with some estimates reaching 11%. Despite this, public awareness about risk factors and prevention remains lacking. Identifying knowledge gaps and misconceptions is key to developing effective prevention strategies for high-risk populations.Objective: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of urolithiasis risk factors among the general adult population in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, and to explore the relationship between awareness levels and demographic characteristics.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from February to April 2025 involving 452 adult participants residing in Makkah. Data was collected using an online self-administered Arabic questionnaire that covered demographics, personal and family history of kidney stones, and knowledge regarding risk factors and preventive measures.Results: Most participants (40.3%) were aged 20– 29 years, and 66.2% were male. About 10.6% had a personal history of kidney stones, while 47.3% reported a family history. Nearly two-thirds (64.8%) had previously received information about kidney stone prevention, primarily from physicians (36.1%). Of those informed, 60.5% reported making lifestyle or dietary changes based on the guidance received. Overall, only 24.1% of participants demonstrated good awareness of urolithiasis risk factors.Conclusion: The study found that knowledge about kidney stone risk factors among Makkah’s population is generally low. Although many participants received preventive information, misconceptions remain, especially about lesser-known risk factors. Younger adults (20– 29 years) had significantly better knowledge, while other demographics showed no significant impact. The results highlight the need for targeted education and public health efforts to improve awareness and prevention.Keywords: urolithiasis, kidney stones, risk factors, knowledge, awareness, Saudi Arabia