Knowledge and Attitudes towards Eye Diseases in a Rural South-eastern Nigerian Population

Background. Knowledge and attitudes concerning eye disorders are important socio-demographic parameters critical for eye care uptake and outcomes, especially in underserved populations. Objectives. To assess knowledge and attitudes concerning common eye disorders in a rural south-eastern Nigerian population. Methods. The study was a population-based survey of knowledge and attitudes concerning common eye diseases conducted in Abagana community in September 2011. Results. The participants comprised 263 males and 238 females. Their profile of good knowledge was eye infections: 38.9%; refractive error: 28.9%; cataracts: 18.0%; diabetic retinopathy: 8.0%; glaucoma: 5.8%; and overall good knowledge: 4.0%. Prevention and treatment of eye disorders were rated as first priorities over other major disabilities by 91.4% participants. Older age and formal education were the significant predictors of good knowledge. Conclusion. In Abagana, there is poor overall and disorder-specific knowledge of eye disorders. Socio-demographic factors are important determinants of knowledge. Community-based preventive eye health education is underscored.