Determinants of Healthcare Professionals’ Knowledge on Age-Related Macular Degeneration Risk Factors in Ethiopia

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess knowledge of healthcare professionals on risk factors of age-related macular degeneration and to identify factors that affect their level of knowledge. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed to collect data from 607 healthcare professionals in Gondar City from August 1 to 30, 2024. Systematic random sampling was used to select study participant. Interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted using R statistical software to identify determinants affecting knowledge on age-related macular degeneration risk factors. The strength and precision of relationships between the outcome and the factors were quantified using adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. P – value below 5% was used to declare statistically significance associations. Results: Six hundred seven healthcare professionals took part in this study. Less than one-third of the participants (29.7%; 95% CI: 25.0%, 34.8%) showed adequate knowledge of risk factors of age-related macular degeneration. Male sex (AOR: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.16, 2.43), healthcare service experience less than five years (AOR: 1.86; 95% CI: 1.23, 2.88), ten years of experience in healthcare (AOR: 0.57; 95% CI: 0.34, 0.95), eye health-related training (AOR: 1.91; 95% CI: 1.23, 2.83), hypertension history (AOR: 2.28; 95% CI: 1.52, 3.44) and diabetes mellitus (AOR: 2.48; 95% CI: 1.02, 6.27) determine healthcare professionals’ knowledge of age-related macular degeneration risk factors. Conclusion: The study highlights a significant knowledge gap among healthcare professionals regarding age-related macular degeneration risk factors. Gender, years of experience in healthcare, and receiving eye health-related training are key determinates of knowledge on age-related macular degeneration risk factors, underscoring the importance of directed educational and trainings to improve healthcare professionals’ knowledge on age-related macular degeneration risk factors.