Paper Title
DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF A KAP QUESTIONNAIRE ON ASCVD RISK ASSESSMENT: A PILOT STUDY IN SAUDI ARABIA

Abstract
This study aimed to develop and validate a questionnaire assessing physicians’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk assessment in Hail, Saudi Arabia. The tool underwent rigorous face and content validation and demonstrated strong reliability across all domains (Cronbach’s Alpha > 0.9). Results confirmed the questionnaire's internal consistency and utility for future KAP studies to improve guideline adherence. Introduction Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading global cause of mortality. ASCVD risk assessment is crucial in guiding primary prevention. Despite existing guidelines, assessment practices in the Middle East are inconsistent. A validated, culturally relevant KAP tool is needed to address this gap. Methods A cross-sectional study used a newly developed questionnaire reviewed by medical experts. Convenience sampling targeted statin-prescribing physicians with ≥1 year post-residency. Content and face validity were established through expert evaluation and physician feedback. Reliability was assessed using SPSS. Results • Knowledge domain: Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.857; strong item-total correlations (r = 0.574–0.825). • Attitude domain: Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.938; significant correlations (r = 0.611–0.859). • Practice domain: Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.931; strong associations (r = 0.63–0.90). • Overall KAP tool: Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.913; content validity index (S-CVI/UA = 0.93, S-CVI/Ave = 0.993). Discussion The questionnaire fills a regional gap by aligning with Saudi clinical contexts and ASCVD guidelines. It confirms that physicians need improved training on ASCVD risk tools and practices. Findings align with studies from Yemen, Jordan, and Ethiopia highlighting low KAP levels despite existing guidelines. Conclusion The validated KAP questionnaire is reliable, culturally appropriate, and a valuable tool for assessing and improving physicians' engagement in ASCVD risk assessment in the Middle East. Keywords - Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD), Risk Assessment, Physicians, Questionnaire Development, Preventive Cardiology