Knowledge, attitudes and practices related to cataract and glaucoma in the population of Conakry, Guinea

Abstract

Introduction: the purpose of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) related to cataract and glaucoma in the population of Conakry Guinea. Methods: we conducted a prospective descriptive and analytical study at the Bartimée Clinic over a period of three months. All patients who agreed to answer our questionnaire and having an age ≥18 years were included. KAP questions related to cataract and glaucoma were asked. Knowledge levels were correlated with age, gender and education. Results: a total of 1000 people participated in the study. Sex-ratio was 1.10 and the mean age was 42.41 years ± 21.74. Male occupations were found to be more represented 21.80%; illiterate persons accounted for 45.10%, those with a very good level of knowledge 47.50%, patients knowing that the treatment of cataract was surgical 59.10%. For glaucoma: 55.80% of patients thought that the treatment was surgical. In the case of cataract and glaucoma 51.90% said they would go to hospital, 38,80% would go to a traditional healer and 9,30% practiced self-medication. There was a significant link between age, gender and education level and knowledge about cataract and glaucoma. Conclusion: in Conakry, Guinea, KAP related to cataract and glaucoma are less than satisfactory. Awareness-raising strategies should be undertaken to improve results.