Awareness and knowledge of glaucoma among the general Saudi public

ABSTRACT

Background: Glaucoma is a disease that results in increased intraocular pressure (IOP) and decreased visual acuity. It is the second leading cause of blindness and leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world. Aim: To assess the level of awareness and knowledge of glaucoma in the general Saudi public and to identify possible factors contributing to the level of awareness. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study using a validated questionnaire was conducted among the general Saudi Public with a sample size of 1233 was conducted Level of awareness, and knowledge were evaluated. Results: 64% reported that they had heard of glaucoma, whereas (36%) did not hear about glaucoma. Age group and level of education had significant effect on the awareness of glaucoma. The majority 701 (56.8%) thought that headache was a symptom of glaucoma, with only. 110 (8.9%) said glaucoma presented with no symptoms. Conclusion: The Saudi general public has demonstrated an adequate awareness and knowledge of glaucoma.