ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: One of the main constraints in the prevention of blindness is the lack of awareness of people regarding eye diseases. This study was undertaken to determine the level of knowledge, the attitudes and practices regarding glaucoma in the population of Lomé. METHODS: An interview using a questionnaire was conducted among an opportunistic sample of 767 people living in the capital city of Lomé and in some of its suburbs. The interview targeted people aged 20 to 65 years; the questions were either closed or open. The interviews were conducted either in French or in the local languages where needed and in the latter case with the help of a translator. Variables measured included education status, e.g., schooling years, economic status and professional situation. RESULTS: The knowledge of eye diseases accounted for 84% among the population studied; the most well-known being myopia, cataract, presbyopia, and glaucoma in decreasing order. Glaucoma was known by 228 people (29.7%) among whom 25% were aware of glaucoma blindness cases; 61.5% declared that glaucoma was a serious condition; 4.4% admitted the use of traditional eye-healers; 56.1% were not confident in the local doctors for the treatment of glaucoma. CONCLUSION: The high proportion of people who are not confident in the capabilities of national doctors to efficiently treat glaucoma is worrying. This situation requires the set up of a rational national strategic action plan (e.g., health education) aimed at reducing the burden of glaucoma blindness in the country.
