Background:

COPD is a progressive disease, meaning that it gets worse over time, and it can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. This study explores the awareness level, smokers' knowledge, and attitudes toward COPD among adults in the Eastern region of Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

This study follows a cross-sectional descriptive design by conducting a structured questionnaire that was distributed to 1187 participants from the adult population.

Results:

The questionnaire was completed by 1187 people (242 men and 945 women), with 151 (12.72%) being current smokers. Among all, 157 (13.22%) had been diagnosed with respiratory disease, with the most common respiratory symptoms being dyspnea, chest tightness, and sputum. Only 210 (17.69%) reported their need to consult a doctor, and 200 (16.84%) underwent pulmonary function testing. Around 78% of the respondents had never heard about COPD. Of the smokers, 81 (53.64%) believed that smoking is the leading cause of COPD, whereas only 22 (14.56%) thought smoking was not associated with the disease. Most participants, 93 (61.58%), were convinced that tobacco cessation therapy significantly manages the disease's progression. The vast majority, 114 (75.49%), knew that knowing about COPD helped smokers stop smoking.

Conclusion:

The study found that the awareness of COPD among adults in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province was notably low. Nevertheless, smokers appeared to possess more knowledge regarding the impacts of smoking on health. The study results indicate that it is crucial to educate the general public about COPD.