Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of hemorrhoid patients regarding surgical treatment

Abstract This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of patients with hemorrhoids concerning surgical treatment. This cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2023 and February 2025 in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China and included patients diagnosed with hemorrhoids. Data were collected through a self-designed structured questionnaire, which included sections on sociodemographic characteristics and evaluated participants’ KAP related to surgical treatment. A total of 431 patients diagnosed with hemorrhoids participated in the study. The mean knowledge, attitude, and practice scores were 8.01 ± 3.07 (possible range: 0–18), 30.61 ± 2.16 (possible range: 7–35), and 34.68 ± 4.73 (possible range: 8–40), respectively. The results of the SEM analysis shown that attitude had a direct effect on practice (β = 0.378, P < 0.001). However, neither the direct effect of knowledge on attitude and practice nor the indirect effect of knowledge on practice was significant. Patients with hemorrhoids exhibited limited knowledge but generally positive attitudes and proactive practices regarding surgical treatment, with attitudes emerging as the primary driver of practice behaviors. These findings suggest that interventions aimed at improving patient outcomes should prioritize attitude-based education strategies, while also addressing knowledge gaps to support informed decision-making.