Mask-wearing Behaviours among the Public in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Public behaviour involving the wearing of face masks are influenced by a host of interdependent demographic, economic, and educational factors, therefore, mask-wearing behaviours among the public vary not only in different countries but also from region to region within a country. Aim: To assess mask-wearing behaviours among the public in Saudi Arabia during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among the general public of Saudi Arabia who could communicate in Arabic, from 9th August 2021 to 12th October 2021, after approval from Taif University. To collect as many respondents as possible, convenience sampling was used. A social media platform was used for the data collection. Descriptive statistics and a logistical regression model were employed for data analysis. Results: A total of 481 participants consented to take part in the current research, with 56.8% being male and 43.2% being female. Most individuals showed poor compliance (67.6%). Female participants, participants who had graduate degree, and people who worked in a confined environment, including a hospital, restaurant or similar place, reported better compliance with the use of a face mask (χ2 =13.29; p-value< 0.001), (χ2 = 8.26; p-value= 0.041), and (χ2 =16.84; p-value <0.010), respectively. Regression analysis defined three characteristics linked with good compliance ie., sex, level of education and present work/ living situation. Conclusion: Most people did not comply with public behaviour concerning the use of face masks. Female participants were more likely to wear a face mask.