A Cross-sectional Study on Knowledge, Perception, and Willingness Among Saudi Population Towards Stem Cell Treatment and Banking: Associated Factors and their Predictive Abilities.

Background: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, perception, and willingness of the Saudi population towards stem cell treatment and banking, the associated factors, and their predictive abilities.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from September to December 2022 in Saudi Arabia using a structured bilingual, self-administered online survey to collect sociodemographic information and determine the knowledge and understanding, perception, and willingness of the general population. Bloom's cut-off points were used to distribute the scores into three categories, namely strong (80-100%), moderate (60-79%), and weak (<59%). Descriptive statistics were used to assess each domain, while t-tests, ANOVA, and binary logistic regression were used to assess factors influencing each domain and their predictive abilities.

Results: The study conscripted 440 respondents, mainly females (70%) aged 18-24 years (56.1%), mostly single (44.3%), Saudi nationals (89%), and college graduates (56.6%). Social media (53.4%) was the primary source of information. 77.95% of respondents exhibited a low level of knowledge. Females, Saudi nationals, respondents with Islamic beliefs, college graduates, and those who received information from family physicians and social media had significantly better knowledge. 50.68% of respondents showed a strong perception. Non-Saudi participants, those who received information from family and friends, and respondents with a high prevalence of hypertension and diabetes in their families had a better perception. However, only 21.59% showed strong willingness toward stem cell treatment and banking, including Saudi nationals and college graduates. Gender was found to be a significant predictor for better knowledge and perception, while no sociodemographic variables significantly predicted willingness.

Conclusion: This study emphasizes the need for increased awareness, educational campaigns, and targeted strategies considering various socio-demographic factors to improve the knowledge, perception, and willingness of the general population toward stem cell treatments and banking in Saudi Arabia.