Background: Intravenous contrast plays a significant role in the radiographic examination for different radiological modalities. It can result in more accurate and precise diagnoses compared to non-contrast examination. However, many patients refuse to undergo a radiographic examination with contrast due to some misconceptions or myths about intravenous contrasts. Accordingly, the awareness of the public toward using intravenous contrast is essential. The objective of the study was to explore the public awareness of intravenous contrast and its risks in Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A self-administered structured questionnaire was distributed online during May and June 2020, which included questions on socio-demographic data of the responders, assessment of knowledge about intravenous contrast, and reasons for refusing the administration of contrast. Data analysis was executed through SPSS program version 26.
Results: A total of 9,912 responders participated in this study. The average age was 30.37 ± 10.1 years old. The most prevalent medical condition was asthma in 6.2%, and only 20.2% had allergies. Among the participants, 13.2% thought their knowledge was sufficient, while 45.7% did not know about it, where 17.5% got their information from the radiology doctor. As for previous investigations, 3.5% refused to undergo the investigation when they were asked to do so because of being afraid of the side effects. Of those who had an examination (8%), 79.9% had side effects after the IV contrast. Females (p-value = 0.001), Saudi residents (p-value < 0.001), living in Eastern area (p-value < 0.001), having no medical conditions (p-value < 0.001), not having any radiographic investigation with contrast, and getting information from doctors (p-value < 0.001), all were factors for significantly better level of knowledge about IV contrasts. However, there was non-significant correlation between gender and knowledge (p-value = 0.084).
Conclusion: The awareness and knowledge of the Saudi public about IV contrasts are insufficient. It is recommended to improve knowledge through awareness campaigns and measuring the difference in knowledge before and after these campaigns.
Key words: Intravenous contrast, risk, awareness, knowledge, and misconception.
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