Knowledge and Practice of Parents Towards Childhood Eye Diseases in Obuoffia, a Rural Community in Enugu Southeastern Nigeria.

INTRODUCTION

Parents are the key decision makers in the eye care of their children. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAPs) towards childhood eye diseases among parents in a rural community in southeastern Nigeria and to determine the factors affecting the KAP.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional population-based survey was conducted among parents in Obuoffia Community, Nkanu West local government area of Enugu state, Nigeria. Data were collected using a pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data were analysed with IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Descriptive, chi-square, and logistic regression statistics were done, and a P value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

There were 597 participants. The proportion of participants with good knowledge was 76.2%, those with positive attitudes was 75.2%, and those with good practice was 22.4%. Good knowledge was significantly associated with being married, on salaried employment, having at least secondary education, and having a positive attitude. Positive attitude was associated with being employed and good knowledge (P < 0.05). Good eye care practice was significantly associated with older age ≥45 years, being employed, and having a positive attitude. The significant predictors of good practice were age ≥45 years and a positive attitude. Belief in the use of traditional eye medications for red or discharging eyes was common.

CONCLUSIONS

There was overall good knowledge and positive attitude towards childhood eye diseases among parents in Obuoffia, but these did not translate to good practice. Intervention eye care programmes integrated with primary healthcare and targeted at parents less than 45 years of age are recommended.