Empowering Communities: Guillain–Barré Syndrome (GBS) Awareness and Education in Qassim, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) is the most common acute autoimmune disease of peripheral nervous system. GBS has received little attention in Saudi Arabia. GBS causes an acute flaccid paralysis that may lead to respiratory failure. So, it requires early diagnosis and management. GBS is a clinical diagnosis which has no international criteria and needs a high index of suspension for diagnosis. It is characterized by a heterogeneous group of clinical presentations that may delay the diagnosis. Objective: this study aimed to conduct an analytical, cross-sectional study based on the data obtained from the online self-administrated questionnaire about the level of awareness of GBS presentation in Qassim region. Materials and methods: This study follows an analytical, cross-sectional design, focusing on data collected through an online self-administered questionnaire to assess awareness of GBS presentation in Qassim region. The study comprised a randomly selected sample of at least 926 participants. Results: The study revealed among 926 participants, 112 were familiar with GBS. Younger participants showed greater awareness. Notably, 62.5% without medical backgrounds knew about GBS. About 75% had personal contact with GBS patients, possibly influencing their awareness. Misconceptions persisted, with only 19.6% recognizing GBS's typical onset duration. Urgency was recognized by 61.6%, but only 29.5% identified the ER as the right care setting. Conclusion: The results unveiled a mix of awareness and misconceptions about GBS. Strengthening education is crucial for better understanding and management.