Hospital pharmacists’ knowledge about and attitudes towards dementia: a cross-sectional survey study

Abstract Objectives This study explored hospital pharmacists’ knowledge about and attitudes towards dementia, identified factors influencing these outcomes, and determined their educational experiences and future training needs. Methods A cross-sectional survey study conducted among pharmacists in eight tertiary hospitals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, between December 2024 and March 2025. Eligible participants (n = 372) were directly involved in dispensing medications for people with dementia (PwD). Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire comprising the Alzheimer’s Disease Knowledge Scale, Dementia Attitudes Scale, and questions on demographics, prior dementia education, and training needs. Descriptive statistics summarized responses, and regression analyses identified predictors of respondents’ knowledge and attitudes using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v30. Key findings In total, 224 pharmacists responded (response rate: 60.2%). Most respondents were female (n = 122, 54.5%), with a median age of 32 years, and 37.1% (n = 83) had graduated within the previous 5 years. The mean knowledge score was 18.90/30, with greatest gaps in the risk factors and caregiving domains. The mean attitude score was 93.50/140, indicating generally positive attitudes. Female gender (β = 0.22, P < .001) and professional experience with PwD (β = 0.14, P = .039) were linked to greater knowledge, while having a relative with dementia (β = 0.20, P = .004) and higher knowledge scores (β = 0.20, P = .003) were associated with more positive attitudes. Most respondents (n = 208, 93.0%) had never undertaken dementia-related training but expressed interest in future education. Conclusions Hospital pharmacists in Saudi Arabia demonstrated moderate knowledge and generally positive attitudes towards dementia. However, notable knowledge gaps and limited prior training were identified, highlighting the need for targeted educational initiatives.