Prevalence, use and sale of contact lenses in Saudi Arabia: Survey on university women and non-ophthalmic stores

Impact of contact lens hygiene risk factors on the prevalence of contact lens-related keratitis in Alexandria-Egypt

BACKGROUND

This study aimed at measuring the effect of contact lens hygiene risk factors on the prevalence of contact lens-related keratitis and identifying the specific risk factors to both microbial and non-microbial keratitis independently.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted at Alexandria Ophthalmology Hospital from May to October 2023. All contact lens wearers attending the outpatient clinic had undergone face-to-face interviews using a standardized validated questionnaire which included demographic data and contact lenses (CLs) hygiene risk factors. Participants were classified into two groups; normal group and keratitis group. Keratitis group was further subdivided into non-microbial and microbial group.

RESULTS

The study included 245 contact lens wearers; 149 normal cases, 50 (20.4%) contact lens-related non-microbial keratitis (CLNK) cases, and 46 (18.8%) contact lens-related microbial keratitis (CLMK) cases. Sharing contact lenses and eye trauma were significant risk factors for both CLNK (p=0.036), (p=0.001) and CLMK (p=0.003), (p=0.017). CLs wear duration for more than 12 hours was associated with an increased risk of CLNK by about 4 times (p=0.030) and overnight wear of contact lenses increased the risk of CLNK by 2.6 times (p=0.030). Showering or swimming in lenses was identified as a significant risk factor for CLMK (p=0.012), moreover washing lenses with tap water increased the risk of CLMK (p=0.030).

CONCLUSIONS

Poor compliance with contact lenses hygiene rules results in a high prevalence of contact lens-related keratitis. Eye trauma and sharing contact lenses were significant hygiene risk factors for both contact lens-related non-microbial keratitis and contact lens-related microbial keratitis.

Awareness and Attitude Regarding Contact Lens Use Among Female Students at the University of Bisha: A Cross-Sectional Study

INTRODUCTION

Given the growing popularity of contact lenses among female students in Saudi Arabia for various reasons including vision correction as well as aesthetic and therapeutic purposes, it is essential to understand the knowledge about them, their uses, and how to handle them, given their significance in healthcare.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study design was utilized in this research, employing data from a sample of 413 female students at the University of Bisha. The participants completed a self-administered questionnaire and were ensured anonymity.

RESULTS

The study results showed that 52.9% (n=218) had a good knowledge level while 47.1% (n=195) had poor knowledge about contact lenses use. The results established a statistically significant association between region, faculty, and study year (p<0.005) with p-values of 0.002, 0.001, and 0.005, respectively, and level of knowledge about contact lens use. There was no statistically significant association between the age of the participants and the level of knowledge about contact lens use.

CONCLUSION

Although there was a generally good level of awareness about contact lens use among female students, there is still insufficiency in knowledge with regard to particular aspects such as cleaning the contact lenses and contact lens cover. The study finds the need for more ocular educational sessions with ophthalmologists to increase awareness about contact lenses.

Magnitude and Determinants of Awareness Regarding Refractive Surgeries Among Saudi Adults

Objectives

This study aimed to present the magnitude and determinants of awareness about refractive surgery among the adult Saudi population and recommend knowledge improvement.

Methods

This web-based cross-sectional study was conducted between June 2020 and May 2021 across various regions of Saudi Arabia on the adult Saudi population. A total of 11 close-ended questions regarding indication, contraindication, preparation and surgery procedures were asked. The awareness scores were grouped as 'good' (≥6) or 'poor' (≤5). Demographic and ocular parameters were associated with the outcomes.

Results

Of the 6,746 participants, 6,580 (response rate = 97.5%) completed the survey. The participation of younger women and older men was greater than their proportions in the population, while older women participated less than their proportion. Good awareness about refractive surgery was noted in 1,165 (17.7%; 95% confidence interval: 16.2-18.0) participants. Women (P <0.001), the 18-29 age group (P <0.001), residents of the central region of Saudi Arabia (P <0.001), health professionals (P <0.001), health sector students (P = 0.0004), people with myopia (P <0.001) and history of refractive surgery (P <0.001) were associated with good awareness. Women (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.5; P <0.001), health sector students (AOR = 1.57; P <0.001), and residents in the central region (AOR = 1.27; P <0.001) were independent predictors of awareness. Knowledge about contraindications for surgery was good in more than one-third of the participants. Of the 535 participants who underwent surgery in the past, 452 (84.5%) were satisfied with their outcomes.

Conclusion

Awareness of refractive surgeries is low in the adult Saudi population. Targeted counseling is recommended to improve the knowledge and acceptance of refractive surgery.

Awareness and Hygiene Practices Among Contact Lens Wearers: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Survey

Background More than 150 million individuals worldwide wear contact lenses (CL) for therapeutic as well as cosmetic purposes. Researchers have linked failure to adhere to CL care instructions with outbreaks of serious eye infections. In the current study, we assess the consequences of inadequate cleanliness as well as awareness of and adherence to appropriate CL hygiene. Methods This is a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in the Jazan region, southwest Saudi Arabia, during the period between October 2022 and April 2023. Results Out of a total of 718 participants, 391 (54.4%) were wearing CL. Of these, 318 (81.33%) CL wearers were female, while 73 (18.67%) were male. Among the CL wearers, 196 (50%) were aged 24 and younger. The overall knowledge was higher in females, with 320 (74.6%) having a high level of knowledge, compared to 195 (67.5%) males (p-value = 0.044). The level of knowledge was higher in those who had had an eye examination before using CL. Regarding practice, 202 (63.5%) females demonstrated better practices, while only 32 (43.8%) males did (p-value = 0.002). Variations in the adequacy of practice regarding CLs were identified according to the duration of CL use and the risk of suffering from eye dryness (p-values <0.05). Conclusions The participants' overall knowledge and practices were good. This should be encouraged by performing an eye examination before wearing CL and demonstrating good wearing habits in terms of hygiene behavior.

Use, Misuse, and Complications of Contact Lens Among the General Population of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

PURPOSE

This study aims to assess contact lens usage patterns, complications, knowledge levels, and the impact of psychological factors on misuse among the Saudi population.

METHODS

In this study, we distributed our questionnaire through multiple social media platforms among patients who are using cosmetic or medical contact lenses regardless of the purpose of wearing them. A total of 1,708 contact lens users participated.

RESULTS

Most participants were female (86.4%) and aged 21-40 years (65.7%). The purpose for usage was cosmetic (36.1%) or medical (28.7%), with some using them for both purposes (35.1%). Complications have been faced, with 26.3% experiencing issues due to lens usage, 56.8% facing visual problems, and 45.8% sometimes feeling discomfort with contact lens usage. Allergic reactions were reported by 35.2%. Higher knowledge levels were associated with participants aged 21-40 years (p = 0.009), irregular ophthalmologist visits (p = 0.032), and cosmetic use (p = 0.027). Better practice patterns were observed among urban residents (p = 0.049), higher-income earners (p = 0.002), cosmetic users (p < 0.001), and those with fewer complications (p < 0.001). Psychological factors significantly influenced misuse, with 15.4% of participants indicating its impact. Notably, a subset of these participants (16.2%) perceived prolonged wear of contact lenses as a manifestation of personal insecurity.

CONCLUSIONS

Several sociodemographic factors, including place of residence, income, and difficulty, influence the use of contact lenses. It is also necessary to consider psychological issues such as low self-esteem and social acceptance while encouraging the safe use of contact lenses.

TFOS Lifestyle: Impact of contact lenses on the ocular surface

Several lifestyle choices made by contact lens wearers can have adverse consequences on ocular health. These include being non-adherent to contact lens care, sleeping in lenses, ill-advised purchasing options, not seeing an eyecare professional for regular aftercare visits, wearing lenses when feeling unwell, wearing lenses too soon after various forms of ophthalmic surgery, and wearing lenses when engaged in risky behaviors (e.g., when using tobacco, alcohol or recreational drugs). Those with a pre-existing compromised ocular surface may find that contact lens wear exacerbates ocular disease morbidity. Conversely, contact lenses may have various therapeutic benefits. The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic impinged upon the lifestyle of contact lens wearers, introducing challenges such as mask-associated dry eye, contact lens discomfort with increased use of digital devices, inadvertent exposure to hand sanitizers, and reduced use of lenses. Wearing contact lenses in challenging environments, such as in the presence of dust and noxious chemicals, or where there is the possibility of ocular trauma (e.g., sport or working with tools) can be problematic, although in some instances lenses can be protective. Contact lenses can be worn for sport, theatre, at high altitude, driving at night, in the military and in space, and special considerations are required when prescribing in such situations to ensure successful outcomes. A systematic review and meta-analysis, incorporated within the review, identified that the influence of lifestyle factors on soft contact lens dropout remains poorly understood, and is an area in need of further research. Overall, this report investigated lifestyle-related choices made by clinicians and contact lens wearers and discovered that when appropriate lifestyle choices are made, contact lens wear can enhance the quality of life of wearers.

Compliance to contact lens wear and care among Jordanian adults

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate compliance to contact lens (CL) wear and care routines among adults in Jordan.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study using a questionnaire administered by an interviewer was conducted among adults in Jordan between the months of May and July of the year 2022.

PARTICIPANTS

Adult (≥ 18 years) contact lens wearers attending work establishments, universities and shopping centers in the cities of Amman, Aqaba and Irbid in Jordan.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Compliance to CL wear and care in addition to CL hygiene habits were evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 834 (600 women) participants were included in the study with an age range of 18 to 55 years (average; 25.49 ± 7.75). Soft spherical CLs for myopia correction were worn by 45.6% of the sample, followed by cosmetic CLs (CCL) (43%). Highest compliance rate (99%) was calculated for not sharing CL with others and the lowest rate (24%) was for cleaning the CL case, with an average compliance rate of 72.25% for the sample with all habits surveyed. Medium compliance rates were related to following instructions of CL solution use including avoiding using expired solution or avoiding topping off. Risk factors for non-compliant behaviors included CCL wear, purchasing CL from beauty centers and being 25 years of age or younger.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This study which was performed in a non-clinical setting showed that women and young adults comprise the majority of CL wearers in Jordan. Participants were compliant with most CL wear and care behaviors except for cleaning the CL case and attending aftercare visits. Many CL wearers also reported purchasing lenses from beauty centers and online without consulting CL practitioners. There is a need for patient education regarding the hygiene of the CL case, and the necessity for consulting the CL practitioner for the appropriate type of CL including proper wear and care regimen.

Demographic profiles of contact lens wearers and their association with lens wear characteristics in Trinidad and Tobago: A retrospective study

Purpose

Contact lenses (CL) remain a popular mode of refractive error correction globally and in the Caribbean, mostly among young people. However, no data on the characteristics of the CL population wearers in the Caribbean is available. This study reported on the characteristics of CL wearers and the associated factors in Trinidad and Tobago (T&T).

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed the clinical records of 243 CL wearers who attended the University of the West Indies (UWI) optometry clinic between 2017 and 2018. Data on their demographic profiles, CL wearing characteristics including lens type, material, purpose of wear, replacement schedule and lens care systems were extracted and analyzed. The associations between the demographic characteristics and CL wearing characteristics were also determined.

Results

About half of the CL wearers used them for fashion (more among those aged 18 to 30 years, 61.0%), therapeutic (more among those <18 years, 43.8%, P = 0.001) and refractive error correction purposes (more in those >40 years, P = 0.001). Females were more likely to use CLs for fashion compared with males (67.0% versus 40.7%). Age (P<0.0005) and gender (P = 0.030) were associated with the lens materials. Those aged 18–30 years were more likely use hydrogels compared with the younger ones (64.1% versus 25.0%). Rigid gas permeable (RGP) CL use was more common in males than females (21.8% versus 10.9%, P = 0.031). Daily disposables were predominantly used by younger respondents (18–30 years old, 31.3%, P < 0.001) and more in females than males (66.7% vs 49.4%, P = 0.040).

Conclusion

The study found that the CL appears to be more commonly worn for fashion in younger females and for refractive error correction in older males. Age, gender, and employment status were the main determinants of lens wear among respondents attending the university clinic in T&T.

Identifying the content, functionalities, and features of a mobile application for contact lens wearers

BACKGROUND

Lack of attention to end-users' requirements and preferences may lead to the failure of health information technology (IT) interventions. Identifying users' needs for designing a mobile application can lead to the development of an acceptable intervention. This study aimed to determine the requirements for designing a mobile application to educate and provide needed information to contact lens (CL) wearers.

METHODS

A qualitative study was conducted on 24 CL wearers and nine eye care practitioners from the three CL clinics in Iran. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using the conventional content analysis proposed by Lundman and Graneheim. Lincoln and Guba's criteria were used to ensure the trustworthiness of the data.

RESULTS

The three main categories that emerged from the interviews were mobile application content, mobile application functionalities, and mobile application features. Ten subcategories and 57 sub-subcategories were also identified. It was determined that mobile content should focus on advice and information for optimizing the CL wearing experience and training regarding the use of CLs. Entering information required for self-care, computational capability, interactivity, updates, and reminders were determined as needed functionalities. The participants recommended features for the structure and user interface of the mobile application and information presentation methods.

CONCLUSION

This study identified the information needed to develop a mobile application for CL wearers. This also provides insights regarding required functionalities when applying IT interventions. These findings can be used by CL clinics, developers of health information systems, policymakers, and health planners to design better CL-related care and compliance interventions.

The attitude and awareness of contact lens use among medical students of King Faisal University, Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia

Background:

Not many studies have investigated the knowledge outcomes among medical students with regards to contact lenses (CL). Thus, in this study, we aim to assess the attitude and awareness of CL use and the associated factors among medical students of King Faisal University (KFU), Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

This a cross-sectional study that based developed based on a designed questionnaire that was composed of 31 questions with a maximum score of 57 points. We have also conducted a linear regression model to explore the possible important factors that may affect the level of knowledge and awareness about contact lenses care.

Results:

A total of 208 participants were included in this study, with a mean age of 21.0 ± 1.9, and 56.3% (n = 117) of them being females. The total mean knowledge score in our study was 30.1 ± 7.74, which was higher in females (31.5 ± 7.09) than in male participants (28.7 ± 7.69). The results of the linear regression model showed that being female (E = -0.37; 95%CI = -0.65— -0.10; P = 0.007), using contact lenses (E = 0.56; 95%CI = 0.29 — 0.82; P < 0.001), and in the third year (E = 0.66; 95%CI = 0.19— 1.13; P = 0.007) is significantly correlated with having higher knowledge scores about using CLs.

Conclusion:

Female participants had higher total mean knowledge scores than males. We recommend that further educational campaigns should be inaugurated to raise awareness about taking care of CLs and enhancing the related practices of wearing them.

Determining the information needs of contact lens wearers for better education and more support: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Designing educational interventions tailored to the needs of Contact Lens Wearers (CLWs) are important and necessary. The present study aimed to determine the information needs of CLWs to educate and provide information to them to increase their knowledge and reduce complications and non-compliance behaviors.

METHODS

A qualitative approach was applied and semi-structured interviews were conducted in three contact lenses (CL) clinics in Iran among all their practitioners and 24 purposively selected patients. Data were analyzed using the Lundman and Graneheim conventional content analysis.

RESULTS

The qualitative analysis revealed knowledge and skill themes as two main categories. The knowledge category includes five subcategories of basic information for the CLWs, acquaintance with the CL, caring for CL, hygiene and vigilance of CL, and challenges of using CL. The skill category consists of two subcategories, including handling/insertion and removal of the CL, and stabilization of learned information. Moreover, 36 sub-subcategories emerged from these seven subcategories that reflected the information needs of CLWs.

CONCLUSIONS

A clear understanding of CLWs' information needs can help to design and develop appropriate educational approaches to overcome training barriers such as physicians' time constraints and high workload. Moreover, it can help deal with CLWs' insufficient knowledge and provide the required information simply and practically with the possibility of enough repetition.

Contact lens procurement and usage habits among adults in Sudan

Objective

The study aimed to assess contact lens (CL) wear and care habits among adults in Sudan.

Design

An observational, non-interventional, multi-center, cross-sectional study was conducted in the CL departments of all the eye hospitals and centers, and optical centers in the Khartoum State, Sudan.

Participants

Established CL wearers residing in Khartoum State, Sudan.

Main outcomes and measures

CL wear profile, CL usage habits, hand and CL hygiene habits were assessed using an interviewer-administered questionnaire.

Results

The average age of the 442 participants was 24.57 (± 4.87) years. Women comprised 92% of the sample. Smoking was reported by 15.8% of the sample. 81.9% wore soft spherical CL, with 43.4% of the participants were prescribed CL on a yearly replacement schedule. Only 68.3% were prescribed CL by an eye care practitioner. Multipurpose solutions were used by 78.8% of the sample to clean CL, and by 52% to clean the lens case. Compliance rate for CL wear and care among participants was 81.1%. None of the participants reported sharing CL or CL case and rinsing the case with tap water. High compliance level was observed for overnight wear; swimming and showering with CL; handwashing before CL insertion; and cleaning of CL. Moderate compliance rates were recorded for cleaning and replacing lens case, and topping up or sharing solution. Low compliance was noted for attending after care visits.

Conclusions and relevance

CL wearers in Sudan exhibit high to moderate levels of compliance to most contact lens wear and care aspects, except for attending aftercare visits. CL practitioners in Sudan are encouraged to prescribe CL appropriate to the lifestyle and economic situation of patients and actively recommend care products. In addition, practitioners need to follow up with patients to attend aftercare appointments, where hygienic wear and care habits should be emphasized.

Contact Lens Practices and Knowledge of Complications and its Association With Refractive Error in Saudi Arabia

Introduction

For optical, cosmetic, or therapeutic purposes, contact lenses (CLs) are temporary prostheses positioned on the eye. CLs do not only improve the quality of life by correcting, but also providing a better appearance and less activity restriction. Patients’ failure to comply with the hygienic practices prescribed in using CLs is often considered an important risk factor for eye complications and it is not often clarified to CLs consumers at the time of dispensation.

Aim

The objective of this study was to assess the knowledge and practices towards the use of CLs in a sample of the Saudi population in Riyadh.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed using an online questionnaire among adult residents in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from April to May of 2020. The statistical analysis was performed using R v 3.6.2 (R Foundation for Statistical Computing, Vienna, Austria). Ordinal (Likert-scale) variables were summarized using mean ± standard deviation, or median and interquartile range (IQR) as needed.

Results

The majority of current users of CLs had no sight problem (P < 0.001). Using CLs was thought to be harmful in non-users (12.4%) versus CL users (2.93%) (P < 0.001). The main reason for using CLs in all groups was the emulation of others. Dryness was a well-known complication in current users (P < 0.05) and evening discomfort was a well-known one in previous users (P < 0.05). Social circle was the main source of information in 40% of users. High monthly income has a significant association with knowledge regarding the complications of CLs compared with low income (B = 0.94, P < 0.05). Education has a major effect on the users’ knowledge regarding the increase of refractive error and infection by CLs (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Knowledge and practice were less than desired among CLs users. Many use CLs without prescription and solely for cosmetic purposes. More education is needed to lessen eye complications among CLs users.

Visual impairment among adults in Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND

To estimate the prevalence of visual impairment, and identify its causes and associated factors among adults aged 40 years and over, attending for eye examination at a Riyadh public hospital in Saudi Arabia.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study conducted among 195 consecutive older adults who attended the outpatient ophthalmology clinic of King Abdul-Aziz University Hospital between 1 February and 30 June 2018. All participants underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examination: visual acuity, refraction (objective and subjective), fundus photography and automated visual field assessment. Classification of visual impairment was based on the World Health Organization criteria: mild visual impairment if best-corrected distance visual acuity < 6/12-6/18 in the better eye; moderate visual impairment if best-corrected visual acuity < 6/18-6/60 in the better eye; and severe visual impairment if best-corrected visual acuity < 6/60-3/60. Regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with visual impairment.

RESULTS

The study participants included 107 (54.9 per cent) females, and the mean (SD) age was 61.1 ± 10.9 years. The overall prevalence of visual impairment (14.9 per cent, 29 cases), consisting of severe (0.5 per cent), moderate (9.7 per cent) and mild (4.6 per cent) forms, correlated significantly with age (R² = 0.023, p = 0.04). The main causes of visual impairment were glaucoma (48.3 per cent), cataract (31.0 per cent), refractive error, and diabetic retinopathy (24.1 per cent each). The odds of having visual impairment increased by 22 per cent and eight per cent respectively in participants who had diabetic retinopathy (adjusted odds ratio 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05, 1.95) and glaucoma (1.08, CI 1.02, 1.40).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of visual impairment among older adults attending the ophthalmology clinic in Riyadh city was high and driven by the high rate of diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma in this region. As part of their routine checks, there is need to make dilated fundus examination and intraocular pressure measurement mandatory tests in addition to refraction and visual acuity testing, when examining Saudi adults attending the hospital eye clinics in Riyadh province.

Ocular surface response and subjective symptoms associated to lens care solutions in Palestine

PURPOSE

To compare the biocompatibility and subjective symptoms of four multipurpose solutions marketed in Palestine with hydrogel contact lenses.

METHODS

50 habitual soft contact lens wearers were recruited in this interventional crossover study. Subjects were asked to attend the optometry clinic five times. A new pair of hydrogel lenses (Bioxifilcon-B) were fitted each time. This pair was soaked randomly overnight in one of the following four-multipurpose solutions (NEOPLUS®, AvizorUnicaSensitive®, ReNuMultiPlus® and COMPLETERevitaLens®) which contain different disinfecting agents (PHMB, Phx, PAPB, and PQ-1+Alexidine, respectively), or non-preserved saline. At each visit, corneal staining, ocular redness and subjective symptoms were assessed.

RESULTS

The percentage of corneal staining increased significantly (P≤0.050) after soaking the lenses with PHMB (86%), PAPB (64%) and Phx (32%) based-solutions. However, a non-significant increase was noticed after the use of PQ-1+Alexidine based solution (30%, P=0.083). Ocular redness evaluation showed a significant increase (P≤0.050) in limbal hyperemia after the use of all solutions, while bulbar redness was significantly increased after the use of biguanide-based solutions (P≤0.050). The subjective assessment analysis showed a non-significant change in comfort, dryness, photophobia and scratchiness (P≥0.050) at 2-h intervention using all solutions, except for the PHMB based solution which showed a significant change in subjective symptoms (P≤0.050).

CONCLUSION

The combination of Bioxifilcon-B hydrogel contact lenses and solution containing PHMB, PAPB and Phx-disinfectants induced a significant increase in corneal staining after 2h of CL-wear with a higher severity when the PHMB-based solution was used, while the PQ-1+Alexidine-based solution did not. Only the PHMB-based solution triggered a significant change in subjective symptoms which might which suggests that it might be related to the severity of staining rather than the induction of staining.

A survey on knowledge and attitude of Saudi female students toward refractive correction

BACKGROUND

To assess the general knowledge and attitude of refractive error correction methods among female Saudi university students.

METHODS

One thousand, one hundred and sixty-five female university students, between 17 and 32 years of age were randomly interviewed using self-administered questionnaires with open and closed-ended questions. The questions collected information on demographics (gender, age, educational status, college of study, and occupation), addressed general knowledge/perception of the difference between the professions of ophthalmology and optometry, and attitudes toward spectacle, contact lens (CL) usage, including coloured prescription CLs, and refractive surgery for correcting refractive errors.

RESULTS

The response rate was 90 per cent (1,052/1,165). Fifty-two per cent had never had an eye examination and only 28 per cent correctly identified the difference between an 'ophthalmologist' and 'optometrist'. Eighty-one per cent knew that CLs instead of spectacles (81.8 per cent), and coloured CLs (89.7 per cent) can be used for correcting refractive errors. Concerning refractive surgery, although a majority (90 per cent) knew that the technique corrects refractive error and reduces dependency on spectacles/CLs, only five per cent had experienced refractive surgery. Approximately, 46 per cent and 47 per cent used spectacles and CLs, respectively, and while the optometrist was the main source of CL prescriptions (41 per cent), most people visited the ophthalmologist for their eye examination (68 per cent). Surprisingly, 52 per cent had never had an eye examination, or had only had one or two eye examinations (50 per cent) in their lifetime. While 23 per cent of spectacle wearers chose to continue with spectacles at the end of the study, 64 per cent and 12 per cent preferred refractive surgery and CLs, respectively, for refractive correction. Lack of information and fear of complications, but not cost, hindered most people from uptake of CLs and refractive surgery.

CONCLUSION

The students demonstrated high levels of knowledge and awareness of refractive correction methods, especially for refractive surgery. Although many consulted the optometrist or ophthalmologist for their eye examinations and corrective devices, many remain uncorrected and unaware of the main difference between both professions. The lack of information about correction methods and fear of complications may have affected their interest in uptake of eye services and should be addressed to increase uptake and prevent avoidable vision loss.

Profile, knowledge, and attitude of contact lens users regarding contact lens wear in Ghana

BACKGROUND

Contact lenses are gaining popularity in developing countries as an alternative to spectacles for the correction of refractive errors. It is needful, therefore, to generate information to guide the mode of practice, and assist the industry in developing products for the increasing contact-lenses-user population. The purpose of this study was to identify the demographic profile, as well as the knowledge, attitude to wear and care regimen of wearers of contact lenses in Ghana.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional study, case folders of 87 users of contact lenses were selected from the database eye contact lenses practices. The folders were reviewed for the demographic profile, type, and purpose for which the contact lenses were prescribed. Forty-two (42) contact lenses users were then randomly surveyed, using a semi-structured questionnaire to collect information on their knowledge, lens wear regimen, and attitudes regarding lens hygiene. Chi-square test was used to test associations between demographics and lens wear variables.

RESULTS

Out of the 87 cases reviewed, 46 (52.9%) were females and 41 (47.1%) males. Their ages ranged from 15 to 68 years with a mean age of 28.62 ± 9.38 years. The majority- 65 (75%) - were youthful (≤ 40 years), with the highest proportion of them - 46 (53%) - being between 20-29 years. The majority - 60 (68.9%) - had a tertiary level of education. Soft contact lenses were commonly worn by 68 (78.2%) users while 19 (21.8%) wore rigid gas permeable lenses. The purpose for wearing contact lenses included for vision correction - 46 (52.9%), followed by for cosmesis - 23 (26.4%) - and therapeutic reasons -18 (20.7%). The commonest refractive error corrected was myopia - 38 (43.7%), followed by astigmatism -19 (21.8%) and hyperopia 6 (6.9%). Among the 42 users who responded to the questionnaire, by proportion, the majority -17 users (40.5%) - were introduced to contact lenses by optometrists. All respondents reported previous symptoms associated with the use of their contact lenses, but slightly more than half, 25 (57.1%) did yearly follow-up visits.

CONCLUSION

The majority of contact lenses used in Ghana are soft lenses, for the purpose of vision correction. The use of contact lenses was common among individuals in their early adulthood and those with tertiary education.

Prevalence, habits and outcomes of using contact lenses among medical students

Objectives:

To determine the prevalence, reasons of use, reported hygienic practices, and complications related to CLs’ usage, and to assess awareness of medical students about CLs’ hygienic behaviours, King Abdulaziz University (KAU), Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

A cross-sectional design was done. A multi-stage stratified random sampling was utilized to select 536 medical students. A validated, self-administered, anonymous questionnaire was used. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were applied.

Results:

The prevalence of current users of CLs was 40.5%. Females reported significantly much higher prevalence of usage compared to males (OR=8.38; 95% CI:5.2-13.3). Second-year students, and those living in university dormitory had the highest prevalence of CLs usage compared to others. The commonest reason for wearing CLs was cosmetic purpose. Improper CLs-hygienic practices were reported; as exceeding the period required for renewal (45.6%), sharing lenses (16.6%), and sleeping (29.9%), swimming (24.6%) or showering (29.0%) with CLs. Only 16.6% of the participants cleaned their lenses daily. At least one CLs’ related complications was reported by 30.4% of the users. Acute red eye (19.8%), conjunctivitis (18.9%), and corneal abrasion (8.3%) were the commonest CLs’ complications.

Conclusion:

A relatively high prevalence of CLs’ usage was found. Participants were aware about CLs-hygienic practices. However, unhygienic CLs-related practices and complications were also reported. Provision of educational messages and training on sound CLs’ hygienic practices are needed.

The use of contact lenses among university students in Chengdu: Knowledge and practice of contact lens wearers

PURPOSE

To assess the prevalence and general knowledge of contact lens wearers among college students in Chengdu, a metroplolitan of Chinaand find out the routine habits of use and hygienic conditions when wearing contact lenses.

METHOD

The questionnaire was distributed to 1,600 ametropic participants who were from 8 different universities. Data about demographics, general contact lens handling habits, personal attitudes, hygiene behaviors and eye health conditions were collected. We made the analysis ofthe demographics and wearing of contact lenses. Possible reasons for behaviors related to the care of contact lenses were analyzed.

RESULTS

The prevalence of contact lens use was 19.80%. Most users (82.15%) were females. An aesthetic effect was cited as the first reason for using (57.91%). The comfort of eyes was the first consideration (75.76%) when buying. To keep clean and use safe, 86.20% subjects washed hands before handling and 83.50% cleaned the lens carefully after removing. There was significant difference between males and females regarding the replacement of the solution (p=0.014). 32.66% wears knew the removal of protein deposits. A total of 54.88% were not informed of the potential complications of contact lens. The incidence of ocular discomfort was 44.78%. Only 3.03% of the students paid regular visits to ophthalmic clinics.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of contact lenses was relatively low in Chengdu. The wears had limited knowledge about using and careof contact lens. More education on standard lens wear and care should be provided to wearers.

Knowledge and practice regarding contact lens among Saudi urban contact lens users

Purpose

To assess the level and determinants of knowledge and practice regarding contact lens (CL) and its accessories among adult Saudi CL users.

Methods

This survey was conducted in 2015 for Saudi contact lens users visiting a Mall in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The questions were related to knowledge about contact lenses, correct CL and accessories usage. We inquired indication, initial prescription, CL use, complications experienced and their management. The knowledge and practice responses were correlated to their determinants.

Results

In this survey, 510 contact lens users participated. The level of knowledge was of excellent grade among 279 [54.7% (95% Confidence Interval 50.4-59)] CL users. The practice was of excellent grade in 210 [41.4% (95% CI 37.1-45.7)] CL users. Variation in knowledge was not associated to gender (P = 0.1), education (P = 0.4), type of work (P = 0.3), funding for CL (P = 0.1). Occasional users and those not having prescribed CL had significantly poor knowledge (P < 0.001). The excellent level of practice was associated to younger CL users (P = 0.004). While it was not associated to gender (P = 0.8), type of CL (P = 0.9), funding for CL (P = 0.2), education (P = 0.7) and occupation (P = 0.1).

Conclusions

The knowledge and practice among CL users was less than desired. Those using contact lens for cosmetic purpose and procuring them without prescription need special focus for health promotion so that their CL related practice improve and eye complications are reduced.

Knowledge, usage and barriers associated with contact lens wear in Ghana

BACKGROUND

Despite findings that contact lens wear for vision correction provides better quality of life than spectacles, contact lens use in developing countries is low. This study evaluated knowledge, usage and barriers associated with contact lens wear among spectacle wearers in Cape Coast, Ghana.

METHOD

A cross-sectional survey using a structured questionnaire was conducted on an adult population of spectacle wearers to assess their knowledge of contact lens wear for vision correction. The participants were proportionately sampled from three eye clinics in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana. Questionnaires were either self-administered or completed with the help of a research assistant.

RESULTS

Of the 422 participants, only 147 (34.8%) knew of contact lens wear for vision correction. The proportion of spectacle wearers reporting history of contact lens wear was 14 (3.3%). Barriers to contact lens wear reported were satisfaction with vision through spectacles 102 (25.0%), lack of adequate information 111 (27.2%), fear of side effects 94 (23.0%) and cost 78 (19.1%). The younger adults and those with higher number of changes of spectacles were more likely to know of contact lenses.

CONCLUSION

Knowledge and usage of contact lenses among spectacle wearers was low. Contact lens education and demonstration of visual performance through fitting of trial contact lenses on potential candidates may help overcome barriers to contact lens wear.

Vision Screening of Ophthalmic Nursing Staff in a Tertiary Eye Care Hospital: Outcomes and ocular healthcare-seeking behaviours

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate ocular healthcare-seeking behaviours and vision screening outcomes of nursing staff at a tertiary eye care hospital.

METHODS

This study was conducted between April and September 2016 among all 500 nurses employed at the King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected on age, gender, use of visual aids, the presence of diabetes, a history of refractive surgery and date of last ocular health check-up. Participants were tested using a handheld Spot^™ Vision Screener (Welch Allyn Inc., Skaneateles Falls, New York, USA).

RESULTS

A total of 150 nurses participated in the study (response rate: 30.0%). The mean age was 41.2 ± 8.9 years old. Distance spectacles, reading spectacles and both types of spectacles were used by 37 (24.7%), 32 (21.3%) and 10 (6.7%) nurses, respectively. A total of 58 nurses (38.7%) failed the vision screening test. Visual defects were detected for the first time in 13 nurses (8.7%). With regards to regular eye checkups, 77 participants (51.3%) reported acceptable ocular healthcare-seeking behaviours; this factor was significantly associated with age and the use of visual aids (P <0.01 each).

CONCLUSION

A high proportion of participants failed the vision screening tests and only half displayed good ocular healthcare-seeking behaviours. This is concerning as ophthalmic nurses are likely to face fewer barriers to eye care services than the general population.