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Bale BI, Zeppieri M, Idogen OS, Okechukwu CI, Ojo OE, Femi DA, Lawal AA, Adedeji SJ, Manikavasagar P, Akingbola A, Aborode AT, Musa M. Seeing the unseen: The low treatment rate of eye emergencies in Africa. World J Methodol 2025; 15:102477. [DOI: 10.5662/wjm.v15.i3.102477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2024] [Revised: 01/11/2025] [Accepted: 01/21/2025] [Indexed: 03/06/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency medical care is essential in preventing morbidity and mortality, especially when interventions are time-sensitive and require immediate access to supplies and trained personnel.
AIM To assess the treatment rates of eye emergencies in Africa. Ocular emergencies are particularly delicate due to the eye’s intricate structure and the necessity for its refractive components to remain transparent.
METHODS This review examines the low treatment rates of eye emergencies in Africa, drawing on 96 records extracted from the PubMed database using predetermined search criteria.
RESULTS The epidemiology of ocular injuries, as detailed in the studies, reveals significant relationships between the incidence and prevalence of eye injuries and factors such as age, gender, and occupation. The causes of eye emergencies range from accidents to gender-based violence and insect or animal attacks. Management approaches reported in the review include both surgical and non-surgical interventions, from medication to evisceration or enucleation of the eye. Preventive measures emphasize eye health education and the use of protective eyewear and facial protection. However, inadequate healthcare infrastructure and personnel, cultural and geographical barriers, and socioeconomic and behavioral factors hinder the effective prevention, service uptake, and management of eye emergencies.
CONCLUSION The authors recommend developing eye health policies, enhancing community engagement, improving healthcare personnel training and retention, and increasing funding for eye care programs as solutions to address the low treatment rate of eye emergencies in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marco Zeppieri
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital of Udine, Udine 33100, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Pirakalai Manikavasagar
- Public Health for Eye Care, London School for Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London CB21TN, United Kingdom
| | - Adewunmi Akingbola
- Department of Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1TN, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom
| | | | - Mutali Musa
- Department of Optometry, University of Benin, Benin 300283, Nigeria
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Al Musalami SN, Al Qasim RJ, Alshuhayb BS, Al-Somali AI. Insights into parental perspectives: Children's eye care in Saudi Arabia. Heliyon 2025; 11:e41179. [PMID: 39811275 PMCID: PMC11730857 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e41179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 12/10/2024] [Accepted: 12/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2025] Open
Abstract
Purpose Despite the concerning growth in the number of children with preventable or treatable causes of blindness, parents and/or children often do not notice many eye problems due to the lack of adequate knowledge about them. Considering the lack of updated relevant literature on this topic, this study aimed to gain insights into parental perspectives regarding children's eye health and the barriers that prevent them from promptly addressing these issues. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was randomly distributed to Saudi parents of children aged 0-18 years from February 2022 to April 2022. Results A total of 1265 parents (mean age = 36.10 ± 10.043 years) completed the questionnaire, and 61.3 % obtained high knowledge scores. The factors associated with high knowledge scores included an educational level above high school, employment in the healthcare industry, and having a child with an eye disease.Two-thirds of the parents did not take their children for periodic eye examinations. However, parents from the central region, healthcare workers, and those having a child with an eye disease were more likely to have their children's eyes checked regularly. Moreover, 40 % of parents tended to believe that routine eye checkups were unnecessary if their children had seemingly normal eyes and no eye complaints.Concerning corrective spectacle use, parents from the northern region and those with an educational level of high school or less were more likely to reject it. Our findings also showed that 25 % of parents believed that eyeglasses may limit their children's daily activities. Conclusion Parental knowledge of children's eye care in Saudi Arabia was acceptable.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Reem J. Al Qasim
- Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Department of Ophthalmology, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Mahfouz MS, Mahmoud SS, Haroobi SQ, Bahkali LM, Numan SI, Taheri AM, Hakami OA, Zunquti OA, Khered SM. Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Parents Regarding Ophthalmological Screening of Preschool-Aged Children in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. Clin Pract 2024; 14:2522-2532. [PMID: 39585026 PMCID: PMC11587032 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract14060198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2024] [Revised: 10/22/2024] [Accepted: 11/06/2024] [Indexed: 11/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children's eye disorders are a major cause of irreversible vision loss. Delays in diagnosing eye problems in children are recurring problems that require quick attention. This study assesses parents' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the early ophthalmological screening of preschool-aged children in Jazan, KSA. METHODS An observational cross-sectional study was conducted among 522 parents of preschool-aged children in the Jazan region. A self-administered web-based questionnaire was randomly distributed to the parents via WhatsApp. The survey tool consisted of four main sections: socio-demographic data, knowledge about eye care, attitudes toward eye screening, and eye care practices. RESULTS Parents' level of knowledge regarding children's eye care was distributed as follows: low (21.5%), medium (40.2%), and high (38.4%). Parent gender, age, occupation, level of income, and nationality showed no statistically significant association with the knowledge level (p > 0.05 for all). However, parent education played a significant role (p = 0.013). Further, parents expressed a positive attitude toward the early screening of eye problems, as more than 90% agreed that early eye examinations for children reduce complications from visual problems and that the increased use of electronic devices requires early eye examinations. Almost 47.0% of the parents had examined their children's eyes when they were between 1 and 5 years of age, compared with only 10.3% of parents of children less than 1 year of age. The multiple linear regression model for factors that predict knowledge level among the study participants showed that having a child undergo early screening is positively associated with an increased knowledge score (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Jazan parents showed a positive attitude toward the early screening of eye problems, and one-third had a high level of knowledge regarding children's eye care. However, the proportion of those who practiced early eye screening was low. More health education is necessary to increase parents' awareness regarding early eye care practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Salih Mahfouz
- Family and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan City, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samy Shaban Mahmoud
- Public Health and Community Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Egypt
| | | | | | | | - Areen Mohsen Taheri
- Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan City, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ohoud Ali Hakami
- Faculty of Medicine, Jazan University, Jazan City, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
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Harvey AA, Morjaria P, Tousignant B. Priorities in school eye health in low and middle-income countries a scoping review. Eye (Lond) 2024; 38:1988-2002. [PMID: 38565599 PMCID: PMC11269736 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-024-03032-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
School eye health (SEH) has been on the global agenda for many years, and there is mounting evidence available to support that school-based visual screenings are one of the most effective and cost-efficient interventions to reach children over five years old. A scoping review was conducted in MEDLINE, Web of Science, PubMed, and CINHAL between February and June 2023 to identify current priorities in recent literature on school eye health in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Selection of relevant publications was performed with Covidence, and the main findings were classified according to the WHO Health Promoting Schools framework (HPS). A total of 95 articles were included: cross-sectional studies (n = 55), randomised controlled trials (n = 7), qualitative research (n = 7) and others. Results demonstrate that multi-level action is required to implement sustainable and integrated school eye health programmes in low and middle-income countries. The main priorities identified in this review are: standardised and rigorous protocols; cost-effective workforce; provision of suitable spectacles; compliance to spectacle wear; efficient health promotion interventions; parents and community engagement; integration of programmes in school health; inter-sectoral, government-owned programmes with long-term financing schemes. Even though many challenges remain, the continuous production of quality data such as the ones presented in this review will help governments and other stakeholders to build evidence-based, comprehensive, integrated, and context-adapted programmes and deliver quality eye care services to children all over the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex-Anne Harvey
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Priya Morjaria
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Peek Vision, Berkhamsted, UK
| | - Benoit Tousignant
- Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- School of Optometry, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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Alrasheed SH, Mohamed ZD, Alluwimi MS. Childhood visual impairment causes and barriers to accessing eye care: A suggested approach for Africa. Afr J Prim Health Care Fam Med 2024; 16:e1-e7. [PMID: 39099279 PMCID: PMC11304197 DOI: 10.4102/phcfm.v16i1.4556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Childhood vision impairment (VI) has a significantly harmful effect on both health and social outcomes. AIM To assess the causes of childhood VI, to determine obstacles to accessing eye care services and to develop a strategy for the childhood eye care system in African nations. METHOD This systematic review was conducted by searching several online databases, including; Scopus, PubMed, ProQuest, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Ebsco and Medline. They focussed on articles available between 2003 and 2023. These studies were conducted to evaluate the causes of childhood VI and to assess obstacles to accessing eye care services in African countries. RESULTS The main causes of childhood VI in African nations can be avoided with timely diagnosis and an appropriate management strategy. The leading obstacles to accessing childhood eye care services were a lack of availability, accessibility and affordability. In addition to these barriers, we found that there are concerns with quality of services, primary health care system, geographic barriers, incorrect health beliefs, inappropriate parental perception, a lack of knowledge, attitudes and inadequate practices related to paediatric eye care. CONCLUSION The main causes of childhood VI were uncorrected refractive error (RE), amblyopia, cataract and corneal opacities that can be avoided with timely diagnosis and an appropriate management strategy. While the main obstacles to accessing childhood eye care services were a lack of availability, accessibility, affordability and healthcare system.Contribution: The recommended strategy for childhood eye-care services includes models for delivery and training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saif H Alrasheed
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia; and, Department of Binocular Vision, Faculty of Optometry and Visual Sciences, Al-Neelain University, Khartoum.
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Gai MJ, Reddy V, Xu V, Noori NH, Demory Beckler M. Illuminating Perspectives: Navigating Eye Care Access in Sub-Saharan Africa Through the Social Determinants of Health. Cureus 2024; 16:e61841. [PMID: 38975490 PMCID: PMC11227464 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.61841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Ensuring access to proper eye health services is not only a fundamental human right but also crucial for preserving an individual's quality of life, preventing blindness, and promoting overall well-being. This is especially true in low-income countries like Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) where recognizing the intricate relationship between access to healthcare and social determinants of health (SDOH ) is crucial to addressing health disparities. The goal of this study was to elucidate and highlight not only the barriers millions face in obtaining eye care but also pave the way for interventions and policies aimed at creating equitable access across diverse populations. To do this, a scoping review was conducted across the Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Embase, and PubMed databases for studies meeting the search terms and inclusion criteria. The results show that intervention strategies that increase vision care must extend beyond the healthcare sector to address the multifaceted challenges. Collaborating with stakeholders involved in addressing broader livelihood issues, such as food security, education, and SDOH, becomes imperative to ensure comprehensive and sustainable improvements in vision care accessibility in SSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mam Jarra Gai
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, USA
| | - Varsha Reddy
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, East Lansing, USA
| | - Vivian Xu
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, USA
| | - Neda H Noori
- Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, USA
| | - Michelle Demory Beckler
- Microbiology and Immunology, Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, USA
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Sharbini S, Awang Damit NAD, Maddess T, Abdullah SN. Parental Awareness of the Preschool Orthoptics Visual Screening in Brunei-Muara District and Factors Contributing to Defaulters. Br Ir Orthopt J 2024; 20:154-164. [PMID: 38799230 PMCID: PMC11122692 DOI: 10.22599/bioj.349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The preschool orthoptics visual screening program began in Brunei Darussalam in 2004 to detect amblyopia, a common cause of treatable visual disorders in children. Amblyopia can be asymptomatic, easily missed, and cause permanent adverse visual consequences; hence, it is necessary to be screened. The parental role in ensuring timely visual screening is pivotal to their child's visual well-being and educational success. This study explored parental awareness and reasons for their nonattendance. Methods A cross-sectional study of 401 parents was conducted in the Brunei-Muara district in private kindergarten schools and maternal and child health clinics. A self-designed and self-administered questionnaire was used. Data collected was analysed using RStudio in the form of descriptive and analytic statistics. Results The study findings showed that 52.8% defaulted their screening and there was a significant association between parental awareness and the defaulters (p < 0.05). Only 39.9% of parents were aware of the screening service availability, and 50.1% had not taken their children for an eye check. The most significant sociodemographic factor that influenced awareness of the importance of vision screening was parental employment status (p = 0.013), revealing a 4.43 times higher likelihood of default if the father was unemployed. This study found that with each additional child, parents are 1.25 times less likely to seek eye screening (p < 0.05). Conclusions The main reason for nonattendance was a lack of awareness of the situation and parents believed that their children were seeing well. Mitigating child visual screening defaults requires a community-focused approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharimawati Sharbini
- PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Brunei Darussalam
| | | | - Ted Maddess
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research (Bldg. 131), Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
| | - Siti Nurliyana Abdullah
- PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Brunei Darussalam
- Eccles Institute of Neuroscience, John Curtin School of Medical Research (Bldg. 131), Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
- RIPAS Hospital, Brunei Darussalam
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Sherief ST, Tesfaye S, Eshetu Z, Ali A, Dimaras H. Exploring the knowledge, attitudes, and practice towards child eye health: A qualitative analysis of parent experience focus groups. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293595. [PMID: 37922264 PMCID: PMC10624311 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of childhood blindness causes in low-income countries are treatable or avoidable. Parents or guardians are responsible for making decisions regarding a child's eye care. Understanding parents' awareness and perception of eye problems in crucial in helping to know parents' eye care-seeking behavior. OBJECTIVE To determine parental knowledge, attitudes and practice regarding child eye health. METHODS Seven focus groups were carried out in Northwest Ethiopia on knowledge, attitude and practice of parents towards child eye health. Their responses were tape-recorded and later transcribed. A thematic phenomenological approach was used for the analysis. RESULT Seventy-one parents participated in the focus groups. Participants were aware of common eye problems like trachoma, trauma, and glaucoma. However, they were unaware of the causes and etiologies of childhood blindness. Participants perceived that eye problems could be treated with hygiene and food, and often held misconceptions about the cause of strabismus and utilization of wearing spectacles. CONCLUSION The study revealed that parents are often unaware of the causes and etiologies of common childhood eye diseases, which has downstream effects on health-seeking behavior. Health promotion efforts, potentially through mass and social media, could be helpful to raise awareness, coupled with training of health professionals at primary and secondary health facility levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadik Taju Sherief
- Department of Ophthalmology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences Program and Centre for Global Child Health, Sickkids Research Institute, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Zelalem Eshetu
- Biruh Vision Speciality Eye Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Asim Ali
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Helen Dimaras
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences Program and Centre for Global Child Health, Sickkids Research Institute, Toronto, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
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Nowik M, Perna F, Dahlmann-Noor A, Stern J, Malkowski JP, Weisberger A, Webber A. Amblyopia-A novel virtual round table to explore the caregiver perspective. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2023; 43:1571-1580. [PMID: 37515472 DOI: 10.1111/opo.13209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE A survey aimed to capture the caregiver's perspective on the impact of amblyopia and its treatment on the child and family, as well as caregivers' views on the design and feasibility of clinical trials investigating dichoptic binocular therapies for amblyopia. METHODS Parents of amblyopic children, patient advocates and healthcare professionals took part in a moderated, structured discussion on a novel virtual advisory-board platform. RESULTS Seven parents of children with amblyopia, two patient organisation representatives, one ophthalmologist and one optometrist participated in the survey. A total of 645 posts were entered on the platform over a 14-day period in September 2021. There was widespread agreement that the management of amblyopia poses more of a burden on the child and family than the condition itself, with treatment burden accentuated when treatment is unsuccessful. Parents expressed uncertainty and frustration in relation to the duration of patching, success of patching and alternative treatment options, and felt there was inadequate readily available, easy-to-understand information on the condition. Parents reported that a new treatment for amblyopia, such as dichoptic binocular therapy using video games, should be safe, non-invasive and engaging compared with an eye patch. Treating at home, potentially for a shorter treatment duration, and with an entertaining game were the main reasons parents would join a clinical study with this type of novel therapy. However, due to a limited critical period treatment window, parents would feel more comfortable joining a clinical trial if traditional therapies were offered in conjunction with those under investigation. CONCLUSION Patient perspectives and the role of caregivers in the acceptance of any interventional treatments are increasingly recognised. Understanding how amblyopia and its treatment impacts a child and family should be an important premise to guide therapy and evaluate treatment value, both in clinical trials and in routine medical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jude Stern
- c/o International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | | | - Ann Webber
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Ghani NDH, Abd Rahman MH, Mohamad Fadzil N, Mohammed Z, Mohd Rasdi HF, Shafie NS. Development and validation of parental knowledge, attitude and practice in eye problem among children questionnaire (PEPC-KAPQ). PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291062. [PMID: 37682886 PMCID: PMC10490973 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most eye problems among children can be detected and treated at an early age to reduce the prevalence of visual impairment. Understanding the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among parents about common children's eye problems is fundamental to encourage parents to seek early eye care services for their children. This study aims to develop a Parental Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice in Eye Problem among Children Questionnaire (PEPC-KAPQ) and evaluate its psychometric properties. METHODS This study involved developing a questionnaire and was conducted in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia from July 2021 until June 2022. The questionnaire was developed based on a literature review and expert consultation. The first phase includes a systematic literature review to generate the items for the questionnaire. A group of five panels was then invited to perform content validity for the questionnaire. Face validity was conducted among ten parents to get feedback for the questionnaire. Construct validity and reliability of the questionnaire were measured by which the questionnaire was administered to a total of 134 parents and 64 parents for reliability test. RESULT The final PEPC-KAPQ consists of four main sections: demographic, knowledge, attitude, and practice with 52 items. The content validity index was 0.85 for all domains of KAP. Modified kappa showed excellent value for most items for all domains. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin sampling adequacy showed acceptable scores of 0.84, and Bartlett's Test of Sphericity was significant (x2 = 3172.09, p<0.0001). Kuder-Richardson-2 of the domain knowledge was 0.95. Cronbach's α coefficient of domain attitude and practice were 0.92 and 0.88, respectively and the intraclass correlation of domain attitude and practice were 0.93 and 0.94 respectively. Bland and Altman's plots show that majority of the data fell within the limits of agreement. CONCLUSION The findings of this validation and reliability study show that the developed questionnaire has a satisfactory psychometric property for measuring the KAP of parents regarding eye problems among children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nor Diyana Hani Ghani
- Optometry and Vision Science Program, Centre for Rehabilitation and Special Needs Study (iCaRehab), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Harimi Abd Rahman
- Optometry and Vision Science Program, Centre for Rehabilitation and Special Needs Study (iCaRehab), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Norliza Mohamad Fadzil
- Optometry and Vision Science Program, Centre for Rehabilitation and Special Needs Study (iCaRehab), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Zainora Mohammed
- Optometry and Vision Science Program, Centre for Rehabilitation and Special Needs Study (iCaRehab), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Hanif Farhan Mohd Rasdi
- Occupational Therapy Program, Centre for Rehabilitation and Special Needs Study (iCaRehab), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nur Syafiqah Shafie
- Optometry and Vision Science Program, Centre for Rehabilitation and Special Needs Study (iCaRehab), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Masarwa D, Niazov Y, Ben Natan M, Mostovoy D. The role of parental health beliefs in seeking an eye examination for their child. BMC Ophthalmol 2023; 23:269. [PMID: 37312052 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-023-02994-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to explore the role of parental health beliefs in parent seeking of eye examinations for their children, using the Health Belief Model. METHODS In this quantitative correlational survey study, 100 parents who presented to Barzilai University Medical Center in July 2021 to perform an eye examination to their child completed a questionnaire. RESULTS Only 29.6% of the parents knew that a vision screening is performed in first grade, and 10% of the parents were unsure about where to find local eye care for their kids. Moreover, 19% of the parents indicated that they were concerned that their child would be prescribed glasses unnecessarily, and 10% believed that wearing glasses would weaken their child's eyes. Various parental health beliefs regarding children's eye examinations were found associated with parent seeking of eye examinations for their child. Thus, perceived susceptibility (r = 0.52, p < 0.01), perceived benefits (r = 0.39, p < 0.01), and perceived barriers (r=-0.31, p < 0.01) are associated with parent seeking of eye examinations for their child. Also, parents' level of knowledge was associated with seeking eye examinations for their child (r = 0.20, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Parent perceptions of the child's susceptibility to vision problems and perceived barriers to seeking eye examinations predicted parents seeking of eye examinations for their child. Interventions aimed at increasing timely eye examinations among children should focus on raising parent awareness of vision problems in childhood, dispelling misconceptions, and providing parents with practical information regarding available services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dua Masarwa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Barzilai Medical Center, Ashkelon, Israel
| | - Yulia Niazov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Barzilai Medical Center, Ashkelon, Israel
| | - Merav Ben Natan
- Pat Matthews Academic School of Nursing, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel.
| | - Dina Mostovoy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Barzilai Medical Center, Ashkelon, Israel
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Ebrahim Khan N, Mahomedy M, Mngadi L, Moola Z, Moola Z, Ndwandwe G, Ntombela AS. Knowledge, attitudes and practices towards refractive error amongst students. AFRICAN VISION AND EYE HEALTH 2022. [DOI: 10.4102/aveh.v81i1.633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Uncorrected refractive error is one of the leading causes of visual impairment. Understanding of the barriers to spectacle usage and attitudes of students towards spectacle use and management strategies can help improve population knowledge and develop school-based programmes to address refractive error.Aim: This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices of university students towards refractive error.Setting: A large university in South Africa.Methods: A quantitative descriptive study was performed via a validated self-administered questionnaire. The survey included questions regarding the knowledge of the participants current status of vision, knowledge on causes of poor vision, accessibility of eye healthcare facilities and attitudes towards spectacle use.Results: Knowledge of participants with respect to the cause of poor vision amongst their peers revealed 63% (n = 189) reporting that digital devices are the major cause of poor vision amongst students, followed by myopia (n = 166) and lastly long-sightedness (n = 117). The majority of participants had adequate knowledge regarding methods of correcting poor vision with 95% listing spectacles as a method of correction followed by contact lenses (n = 250) and surgery (n = 203). There were 29% of participants who reported using spectacles all the time and 22% who reported using spectacles some of the time.Conclusion: The university students are knowledgeable about the causes of poor vision amongst students. Some students have refractive error but display poor attitude and practice towards spectacle wear because they do not wear spectacles as often as they should. Awareness around eye care and spectacle use must be created.
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Alrasheed SH. A systemic review of barriers to accessing paediatric eye care services in African countries. Afr Health Sci 2021; 21:1887-1897. [PMID: 35283961 PMCID: PMC8889803 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v21i4.47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Global estimate reported that 1.4 million children are blind of which three-quarters live in developing countries. Childhood Visual Impairment is a major public health problem globally especially in rural areas of developing countries. Objective To review barriers to accessing paediatric eye care services in African countries. Methods The studies in this review were searched in online databases (PubMed, Web of Sciences, ProQuest, Scopus, Google Scholar, African Index Medicus and Medline) for studies published between January 2000 and April 2020. The articles included in this review, which was conducted in Africa to assess the barriers for accessing paediatric eye care services with regards availability, accessibility, affordability, socio cultural barriers of parents/caregivers and community. Results Of 22 705 articles screened, the study found 29 publications from 10 African countries which met the inclusion criteria. The main barriers were non-availability, non-accessibility, and non-affordability of paediatric eye care services. The studies reviewed revealed that there are other factors affecting the utilization of paediatric eye services which include the primary health system, geographic barriers, health beliefs, perception of parents; lack of knowledge, attitudes and practices about paediatric eye care. Furthermore, environmental, demographic barriers and socio-economic status has negative impact on accessing paediatric eye care services in African counties. Conclusion The main barriers to accessing paediatric eye care services in Africa were affordability, accessibility and availability. There is therefore a need for all relevant stakeholders to play a significant role in addressing barriers to child eye care in African countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saif Hassan Alrasheed
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Saudi Arabia
- Faculty of Optometry and Visual Sciences, Department of Binocular vision Al-Neelain University, Khartoum, Sudan
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Wilson S, Ctori I, Suttle C, Conway M, Shah R. How accessible is primary eye care for children in England? Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2021; 41:1021-1033. [PMID: 34402083 DOI: 10.1111/opo.12868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Good vision during childhood is vital for visual, educational, and social development. Previous research highlights challenges in the accessibility of eye care for children. This study investigates the accessibility of primary eye care for young children with typical development and those with autism in England. METHODS A telephone survey was conducted using four hypothetical scenarios (a child aged 1, 3, 5 years and a 13-year-old with autism). Four hundred community optometric practices (100 different practices for each scenario) were contacted to explore the availability of an eye examination. The caller acted as a parent, asking about the availability of an eye examination for their child and raising concerns regarding the child. Key barriers and enablers to the accessibility of primary eye care were identified through an analysis of qualitative information. RESULTS Of the 400 practices, only three (<1%) stated that they do not perform eye examinations on children. Fifty-six practices (14%) stated that they would examine a child at any age, the remainder (n = 341, 85%) specifying a minimum age at which they would perform eye examinations on children. Lack of 'communication' from the child and 'equipment' were identified as barriers to accessing eye care for young children. Eye care for children with autism was enabled by factors related to adaptability and appointment time. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that communication and a lack of appropriate equipment for examining children are potential barriers to accessing primary eye care. No clear barriers were identified for an older child with autism. Eye examinations are more accessible for older children in these scenarios (aged 5 with typical development and 13 years with autism) than younger children (aged 1 and 3 years old). While the UK General Ophthalmic Services (GOS) terms do not permit contract holders to exclude categories of patients from a GOS eye exam, our findings suggest this is taking place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma Wilson
- Division of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - Irene Ctori
- Division of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - Catherine Suttle
- Division of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - Miriam Conway
- Division of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
| | - Rakhee Shah
- Division of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London, UK
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Assefa NL, Tolessa KG, Ferede AT. Knowledge of Childhood Blindness and Associated Factors Among Parents or Guardians in Maksegnit Town, Northwest Ethiopia. CLINICAL OPTOMETRY 2020; 12:175-182. [PMID: 33117028 PMCID: PMC7553253 DOI: 10.2147/opto.s275071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Childhood blindness is defined as a group of eye diseases occurring in childhood or early adolescence. Good parental knowledge of childhood blindness is important for early detection and management of the lifelong burden. PURPOSE This study aimed to assess knowledge of childhood blindness and associated factors among parents or guardians. MATERIALS AND METHODS A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted. Systematic random sampling was used to select the study participants. Data were collected by interview using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed by SPSS version 20. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify the determinant factors, and p-values less than 0.05 were considered as statistically significant. RESULTS A total of 524 participants were enrolled in the study, with a 98.49% response rate. The proportion of good knowledge of childhood blindness was 39.1% (95% CI: 34.9-43.3%). Being male (AOR=2.32, 95% CI: 1.4-3.87), higher educational status (AOR=6.47, 95% CI: 2.4-17.3), knowing where the child eye care center is (AOR=2.68, 95% CI: 1.5-4.7) and participation in eye care campaigns (AOR=1.95, 95% CI: 1.26-3.0) had statistically significant associations with knowledge of childhood blindness. CONCLUSION Less than half of the study participants had good knowledge about childhood blindness. Being male, having higher educational status, knowing about the child eye care center and participation in eye care campaigns were positively associated with knowledge of childhood blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natnael Lakachew Assefa
- Department of Optometry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences and Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Kalkidan Getahun Tolessa
- Department of Optometry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences and Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Ayanaw Tsega Ferede
- Department of Optometry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences and Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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