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Knowledge, attitude, and practices toward conjunctivitis among general population of central Karnataka - A
H Shalini1, Aishwarya Bali1, S Poojitha1
1Department of Community Medicine, JJM Medical College, Davangere, Karnataka, India.
Insights
This study on conjunctivitis in India found a significant knowledge gap regarding its causes, with many unaware of bacterial origins. While most sought timely medical care, some practiced inappropriate self-medication, indicating a need for improved public health education on eye infections.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Conjunctivitis is a common global eye condition, with infective conjunctivitis representing a significant portion of cases.
- Bacterial conjunctivitis prevalence varies, and this study was prompted by a recent outbreak during India's monsoon season.
- Understanding population perceptions and practices is crucial for managing conjunctivitis outbreaks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the understanding of conjunctivitis causes and symptoms among the general population.
- To evaluate the practices and behaviors related to conjunctivitis management and treatment.
- To identify knowledge gaps and inform public health education strategies.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted in an urban field practice area.
- Two hundred adult participants (aged over 18) without current eye infections were enrolled.
- Data collection occurred between August and October 2023.
Main Results:
- A majority (64.5%) of participants were unaware of conjunctivitis causes, with only 18.5% correctly identifying bacteria.
- Most participants (50.5%) recognized eye redness as a symptom and sought medical consultation within 2-3 days (73%).
- While 69.5% used prescribed antibiotic eye drops, 10% self-medicated using old prescriptions.
Conclusions:
- Significant knowledge gaps exist regarding the etiology of conjunctivitis within the studied population.
- Despite most seeking timely medical attention, a subset exhibited concerning self-medication practices.
- Enhanced public health education is necessary to improve conjunctivitis management and prevent inappropriate treatment.
Background:
Conjunctivitis is a widespread eye condition globally, with 2-5% of general practice consultations concerning eye issues. Infective conjunctivitis accounts for approximately 35% of eye-related cases, with an incidence of 13-14 per 1,000 individuals. Estimates on the prevalence of bacterial conjunctivitis in children vary widely. In light of the recent outbreak during the monsoon season in India, this study aimed to assess the population's perceptions and practices regarding conjunctivitis.
Objectives:
1. To explore the understanding of conjunctivitis among study participants. 2. To understand the practices followed in managing conjunctivitis.
Methodology:
This cross-sectional study was conducted in the urban field practice area of JJM Medical College between August and October 2023. Participants included individuals aged over 18 years, with no current eye infection, who provided informed consent. Two hundred participants were enrolled in the study.
Results:
The majority, 68 (34%), were aged 21-30 years, followed by 45 (22.5%) aged 31-40 years. The mean age was 36.2 ± 13.6 years. Most participants (129, 64.5%) were unaware of the cause of conjunctivitis, whereas 37 (18.5%) correctly identified bacteria as the cause. Half of the participants (101, 50.5%) recognized eye redness as a symptom. Most participants (146, 73%) sought medical consultation within 2-3 days of symptom onset. Additionally, 139 (69.5%) used antibiotic eye drops as per a doctor's prescription, while 20 (10%) self-medicated using previous prescriptions.
Conclusion:
The study reveals a knowledge gap regarding the causes of conjunctivitis, though most participants sought timely medical attention. However, a small portion engaged in inappropriate self-medication practices, highlighting the need for better public health education.
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