Abdulelah A. Otaif, Ramzi M. Dighriri, Abdulrahman A. Otaif, Riyadh A. Jahlan, Osama A. Alotayf, Ali Y. Shaikh, Saud N. Alwadani, Raghad M. Alnami, Asma M. Soweedi
Jazan University, Jazan. Armed Forces Hospital.
Saudi Arabia
Frontiers in Pediatrics
Front Pediatr 2026;
DOI: 10.3389/fped.2026.1761634
Abstract
Background: Recurrent adenotonsillitis is a frequent pediatric condition with complications affecting sleep, growth, hearing, and behavior. Parental awareness is essential for early identification and timely intervention.
Aim: This study aimed to assess parental knowledge and awareness of recurrent adenotonsillitis complications and its surgical management among parents in the Jazan region, Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among parents residing in the Jazan region who had at least one child aged 1-14 years. A validated self-administered questionnaire assessed sociodemographic characteristics and knowledge of adenotonsillar disease and surgery. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26, with significance set at p < 0.05.
Results: Out of 448 respondents, 311 met inclusion criteria. Most were female (59%), Saudi (97%), and had university-level education (72%). About 57% of parents showed good knowledge based on scoring above the mean. Awareness was higher regarding symptoms like snoring (66%), sleep apnea (67%), and voice changes (75%). However, fewer parents recognized complications such as pulmonary hypertension (28%), GERD (32%), or dental issues (31%). Nearly half (49%) acknowledged weight loss as a possible consequence of chronic infections, and 58% agreed neck swelling could be a sign. Regarding surgery, 44% believed immunity might weaken post-adenotonsillectomy, and 47% identified bleeding as the most common complication. Only 40% were aware of adenoid regrowth. Age over 40 (p < 0.001) and positive family history (p = 0.001) were significantly associated with higher knowledge.
Conclusion: While parental awareness of some aspects of adenotonsillar complications is adequate, notable gaps remain, particularly concerning long-term and systemic effects. Targeted health education campaigns are essential to bridge these gaps and support better pediatric health outcomes.
Category
Class III. Pulmonary Hypertension Associated with Airway Disease, Apnea or Hypoventilation
Age Focus: Pediatric Pulmonary Vascular Disease
Fresh or Filed Publication: Fresh (PHresh). Less than 1-2 years since publication
Article Access
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