Background Glaucoma is a group of conditions characterized by progressive irreversible optic neuropathy, intraocular pressure as a modifiable risk factor, and, in many patients, visual field defects. Glaucoma has recently been classified as a neurodegenerative disorder of the optic nerve that results in the loss of retinal ganglion cells. This study evaluated levels of awareness of glaucoma in the general population of Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia. Methodology A pre-designed, pre-validated online questionnaire from previous studies was distributed to respondents via online social media platforms. Factors associated with awareness of glaucoma were analyzed statistically. Results Responses were received from 585 participants aged ≥18 years, including 309 (52.8%) men and 276 (47.2%) women. Gender, a diagnosis of glaucoma, a positive family history of glaucoma, and undergoing glaucoma screening were significantly associated with the level of glaucoma knowledge (p < 0.05 each). Age group (p = 0.587) and level of education (p = 0.136) were not significantly associated with the level of glaucoma knowledge. Conclusions The population of Riyadh City exhibited a low level of glaucoma awareness, indicating an urgent need for comprehensive ophthalmic health education initiatives aimed at enhancing public consciousness and awareness of glaucoma risks and complications.
BACKGROUND: Keratoconus (KC), is a non-inflammatory, bilateral, asymmetrical, progressive disease characterized by ectasia, thinning, increasing corneal curvature, and loss of visual acuity. In Saudi Arabia, it was discovered that KC has been the main reason for corneal transplantation in the past 20 years. Eye rubbing is considered one of the most significant risk factors for KC based on available data. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults in Aseer province, Saudi Arabia in 2023. Data were collected through a pre-designed online questionnaire consisting of 17 questions divided into three sections. The questionnaire was preceded by informed consent and insured to maintain the confidentiality of the data. RESULTS: A total of 498 respondents were included in this study. The majority of the study's participants were in the 18 to 25 age group and females made up the majority. The majority of participants had a university education. 41.6% of individuals reported experiencing an allergic disorder, 59.0% reported having knowledge about KC, and the overall participants' awareness regarding KC was poor at 85.74%, with the highest percentage of good awareness (22.2%) detected among the 18-25 age group. CONCLUSION: The study revealed a concerning lack of awareness about KC among the population in Aseer Province, Saudi Arabia. Additionally, a significant percentage of participants engaged in eye rubbing, a behavior associated with increased risk for KC. There is a need for increased awareness about KC and the importance of avoiding eye rubbing.
Background Keratoconus (KC) is a non-inflammatory corneal disease with an early onset in adulthood, leading to a reduction in visual acuity. This study aims to evaluate the level of awareness of keratoconus among the general population in the Hail region of Saudi Arabia. Methodology Data were collected through a pre-designed and pre-validated online questionnaire (Appendix) distributed via social media platforms. The questionnaire was divided into two sections. The first section included demographic profiles, while the second section inquired about knowledge and awareness regarding Keratoconus. The collected data was reviewed, coded, and inputted into IBM Corp. Released 2013. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 22.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp. Statistical analyses were performed using the Pearson Chi-Square test, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results The total number of respondents was 550, among whom 40% were males and 60% were females. 79.6% of the participants were in the age range of 18-30 years. The level of education and a positive family history of KC showed significant associations with the level of knowledge about KC (p<0.05). The age group had a non-significant association (p=0.059), while gender had a significant association with the level of knowledge about keratoconus (p<0.05). Conclusion In conclusion, the overall awareness regarding KC progression, interventions, and the consequences of eye rubbing was limited among the participants. Specific efforts are crucial to enhance public awareness and understanding of KC, ensuring a more informed and proactive approach to eye health within the community.
