Perceptions of Varicocele Embolization as a Therapeutic Options for Adult Patients, A LocalProspective

Abstract

Objective: To assess awareness of varicocele, knowledge of available therapeutic options, particularly varicocele embolization, and related health-seeking practices among adults in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia.

Study Design: Community-based cross-sectional study
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Qassim, Saudi Arabia from June 2024 to June 2025.

Methods: A total of 320 adults were recruited through convenience sampling and completed a self-administered Arabic questionnaire comprising 23 items. The questionnaire collected sociodemographic information and assessed knowledge of varicocele, its clinical implications, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options, including surgical repair and interventional radiological embolization. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26.0 and presented as frequencies and percentages.

Results: Of the 320 participants, 185 (58%) were married, 205 (64%) worked in non-health-related fields, 212 (66%) held a bachelor’s degree, and 250 (78.1%) were Saudi nationals. Only 37 (11.5%) participants reported having been diagnosed with varicocele. Nearly half, 158 (49.4%), incorrectly described varicocele as enlargement of the testes, while 122 (38.1%) did not know its meaning; none correctly identified it as dilatation of the testicular veins. Regarding varicocele embolization, only 68 (21.3%) correctly recognised it as an interventional radiological procedure, whereas 66 (20.6%) considered it a surgical procedure and 186 (58.1%) had no knowledge of it. Furthermore, 288 (89.7%) participants reported never undergoing routine testicular examination.

Conclusion: Adults in the Qassim region demonstrated inadequate knowledge of varicocele and limited awareness of varicocele embolization as a therapeutic option. Community-based educational campaigns, improved counselling, and greater involvement of healthcare professionals are needed to promote early recognition, appropriate health-seeking behaviour, and informed treatment decisions.