AWARENESS AND KNOWLEDGE TOWARDS COMMON EYE DISEASES OF CITIZENS IN MEDINA CITY, SAUDI ARABIA

Objective: The study aimed to assess the extent of knowledge regarding common eye diseases namely cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, refractive errors, and eye traumas among citizens of Medina City, Saudi Arabia.

Subjects and Methods: A total of 288 citizens (≥18 years old) of Medina city were selected and asked to answer online questionnaires regarding their knowledge on common eye diseases. The questionnaire includes demographics, awareness, and source of information of eye diseases.

Results: Overall, the 283 participants have obtained a good mean general knowledge on cataract, strabismus, and refractive error, while nearly intermediate mean general knowledge about diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. Knowledge scores of the participants were found to be highest for cataract (64.25±27.6), while lowest for glaucoma (47.76±34.3). The common source of information regarding eye disease were their family members and friends (33.3%, n=96). In term of socio-demographic factors, male gender was found to be the common factor that significantly influence the awareness of participants towards cataract, retinopathy, glaucoma, and refractive errors, while presence of eye problem was observed to significantly influence the knowledge of respondents towards retinopathy, glaucoma, and strabismus.

Conclusion: This study concludes that proper and extended awareness and knowledge, such as creating health programs and effective health education, towards eye diseases must be imposed to help mitigate the cases of eye health diseases.