Authors: Dr Alhanouf F. Banah , Mr Bandar M. Abuageelah , Dr Halima A. Alghamdi , Ms Manar S. Dajam , Ms Wareef S. Abuhatlah , Ms Nada A. Mohamed , Ms Ghade T. Aljaber , Mr Muhannad N. Khowaji , Mr Mohammed A. Jad , Mr Yousef M. Alyami , Dr Mohammed E. Elhussiny , Dr Hassan N. Moafa , Dr Khalid A. Majrashi , Dr Ammar A. Najmi

Abstract

Background: Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is an under-recognized sleep-disordered breathing condition with important neurobehavioral and cardiometabolic consequences. This study assessed parental knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding pediatric OSA in southwestern Saudi Arabia and identified associated sociodemographic factors.

Methods: An observational cross-sectional online survey was conducted in the Aseer and Jazan regions (June-August 2025). Parents (≥18 years) were recruited via social media using convenience sampling (N = 716). The validated Arabic questionnaire measured knowledge (0–11; adequate ≥6), attitudes (5–25; positive ≥16), and practices (0–12; adequate ≥7). Multivariable logistic regression examined predictors of adequate knowledge, positive attitudes, and adequate practice.

Results: Inadequate knowledge was prevalent (66.3%), while most participants reported positive attitudes (82.3%). Among caregivers, reported practice was predominantly adequate (91.1%). In adjusted analyses, increasing age was associated with lower odds of adequate knowledge and positive attitudes (both aOR = 0.98 per year; p < 0.05). Female gender was associated with higher odds across KAP domains (aORs 1.47–1.58; p < 0.05). Higher education predicted better knowledge and more positive attitudes (p < 0.05), and a greater number of children predicted lower odds of adequate practice (aOR = 0.84; p = 0.036). Social media was the preferred awareness channel (49.5%), followed by school/community sessions (23.8%).

Conclusions: Public knowledge of pediatric OSA in southwestern Saudi Arabia is limited despite positive attitudes, supporting targeted, culturally appropriate awareness interventions, primarily via social media.

Keywords: Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea; Knowledge; Attitudes; Practices; Saudi Arabia