Awareness, Perception, and Health Knowledge of Allergic Rhinitis among the Population in Hail Region, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: Allergic rhinitis (AR) represents a prevalent health concern in Saudi Arabia and worldwide due to its noticeable effect on well-being, mood, social communication, and productivity. Objectives: This study was conducted to assess the awareness, health knowledge, and perception towards AR in the Hail region of Northern Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: This descriptive community-based survey was conducted from January 1, to July 31, 2025, in Saudi Arabia’s Hail region. A total of 459 Hail residents including the ages from 18 to 65 years participated by completing electronic self-administered questionnaire, that included questions about participants’ sociodemographic characters as well as questions to assess the level of awareness and determine knowledge gaps about AR among residents of Saudi Arabia’s Hail region, using a validated Arabic version of a self-administered questionnaire (The Arabic version of the score of AR). Results: All participants were aware of AR as a health problem. However, knowledge regarding its etiology, hereditary factors, prevention, and treatment was variable. Only a minority correctly identified all classic symptoms and hereditary associations. Higher levels of education were significantly correlated with better awareness and knowledge scores ( P < 0.05), while gender showed a weaker but positive association. Conclusion: Despite widespread awareness of AR, significant knowledge gaps persist among adults in the Hail region. Targeted community education and public health initiatives are required to address misconceptions regarding its etiology, heredity, comorbidities, and preventive measures across all age groups in the Hail region, Saudi Arabia.