What is known about Ventricular Septal Defect in University Female Students of Saudi Arabia?

Abstract

This study was performed to estimate the knowledge and awareness of the university students about the presence of ventricular septal defects (VSDs) in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was performed in Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University (PNU) campus where a total of 350 female students in the age group of 17-25 years were surveyed using a clinically appropriate structurally designed questionnaire. Only a third of the population were familiar with the definition and anatomical location of VSDs. Although, majority of the population believed that VSDs are subject to cure, a negligible population of the students were aware that VSDs are associated with pulmonary hypertension in adults, although, about half of the population were associated with people who were suffering from VSDs. Even though promising, only half of the population were aware of rapid breathing in infants and association of endocarditis with VSDs. Regarding life-style factors, only 18% of the population knew that VSD patients are restrained from different physical activities. This population study is the first of its kind to determine the knowledge of the university students regarding the characteristics, symptoms, risk-factors, management and life-style factors associated with VSD. It identified the imperative need to organize campaigns to raise awareness about the disease process and management among female population who will be future mothers since Awareness about VSDs can help manage the physical, social, cognitive and emotional well-being of the patients with better outcomes to reduce the mortality rate.