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

Abstract

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.