Level of knowledge and awareness about diabetic retinopathy among population of Al Baha region in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Diabetic retinopathy is a complex metabolic disease with a huge prevalence ratio. However, there is a dearth of literature about the importance of knowledge regarding diabetic retinopathy, which can help in the ease of screening and management. Methods: The study was conducted in Al Baha region, Saudi Arabia. N = 385 participants, including diabetics and non- diabetics, were recruited through the online questionnaire. The questionnaire was based on 15 questions that were focused on awareness of diabetic retinopathy, participants’ satisfaction with the knowledge of disease and the barriers faced by them while seeking access to the treatment. Results: Out of N = 385 participants in the present study, 246 were males, and 139 were females. The majority of the participants (69%) reported that Diabetes could lead to eye blindness in affected patients. These participants do have some knowledge of diabetic retinopathy. Furthermore, the participants (60%) reported that they acquired knowledge of diabetic retinopathy from resources other than social media and doctors. Only a few of them (4 participants) had diabetic retinopathy; however, most participants (84%) exhibited the need for a regular annual eye check up. Conclusions: Subjects in the present study have significant knowledge of diabetic retinopathy. However, many still remain underdiagnosed in the practical world. Delay onset of diabetic retinopathy in the case of Diabetes mellitus is also because of the under diagnosis. Therefore, it is important to assess the complete knowledge and awareness of the disease and its serious complications. Keywords: