Mothers Knowledge Regarding The Hazards Xenoestrogens Pose To Young Females: A Cross-Sectional Study in Western Saudi Arabia

Background:-Xenoestrogens are endocrine-disrupting chemicals capable of altering or interfering with the natural actions of endogenous hormones. However, there is currently a paucity of data regarding the public’s knowledge of the risks xenoestrogens pose, especially for young females, and regarding their knowledge of measures that can be taken to prevent such risks. This study aim to investigate mothers’ knowledge of the hazards associated with xenoestrogen exposure in young females in western Saudi Arabia. Methods:-This cross-sectional study was conducted at the pediatric ambulatory clinic at King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between June and August 2016. We randomly selected mothers with at least one daughter aged 6–15 years. In total, 794 mothers participated. Data were gathered on the participant demographics, beliefs about xenoestrogens, and knowledge of xenoestrogen-containing products and related risks. Results:- The mean age of the participants was 38.4 ± 7.01 years. Most were of Saudi origin (n = 625, 78.7%). There were 378 (47.6%) mothers with a low/average level of education, whereas 416 (52.4%) were highly educated. Only 219 (27.6%) had received previous information regarding xenoestrogens; the remaining 575 (72.4%) had not. There was a significant association between the mothers’ education level and their knowledge of xenoestrogen hazards. Conclusions:- Our findings indicate that knowledge of xenoestrogens among mothers in Saudi Arabia is limited. Hence, programs and activities using social media, as well as educational campaigns, need to be established to increase awareness.