A hospital based study on awareness of diabetic retinopathy in diabetic individuals based on knowledge, attitude and practices in a tier-2 city in South India

Abstract

Aim: To assess the awareness and practices relating to diabetic retinopathy (DR) in diabetic individuals attending hospital and to report the results of KAP (knowledge, attitude, practice) study which would help in identifying the lacunae in promoting awareness and in improving the practice towards diabetic retinopathy. Design: Hospital based cross sectional study. Methods: This study was conducted on 200 diabetic patients who attended ophthalmology outpatient department (OPD) between Nov 2012 and Jan 2013 regarding their awareness relating to diabetic retinopathy. The study included a semi structured questionnaire based on demographic details, literacy levels, awareness of risk factors and management of diabetic retinopathy. Statistical analysis used: Chi Square test, Fisher Exact probability test, Odds ratios and Logistic regression analysis. Results: Among the 200 diabetic individuals attending our OPD, 145(72.5%) patients were aware of damage to eyes due to diabetes. Out of these 145 patients, 102(52.5%) knew that diabetes could cause a decrease in vision while 65(32.5%) attributed diabetes to total blindness. The mean age was 57.1 years, 124(62%) were males and 136(68%) were literates. 108(54%) patients knew that ocular damage due to diabetes was treatable. However only14 (7%) knew that good control of diabetes was important for prevention of visual impairment and13 (6.5%) knew about surgical options for treatment of DR. Only 31(16.5%) of diabetic patients were referred for an eye examination by the physicians. Conclusion: Our study highlights the need for more awareness camps regarding DR, its risk factors, treatment options and follow up. Role of physicians was alarmingly low in our study which needs to be stressed.