KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES OF DIABETIC RETINOPATHY AMONG DIABETICS IN GOA MEDICAL COLLEGE AND HOSPITAL.

Corresponding Author:
Dr. Sharvani Pai,
2A, Suvidha Apartments,
Road Lane No. 7, La-Campala Colony,
Miramar, Panaji-403001, Goa.
E-mail: sharvani.g.pai@gmail.com

ABSTRACT\

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is currently a major disease of concern in terms of public health. It is reported to be affecting a population of more than 170 million globally and this number is expected to double between 2000 and 2030. 34.6% of all diabetics developed some form of diabetic retinopathy. In the Indian subcontinent, the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy was found to be 18%. Tight glycaemic control and regular screening can slow down the progression of diabetic retinopathy. Positive consciousness of retinopathy among individuals with diabetes could help in the timely identification and treatment of retinopathy.

Therefore, this study was conducted to assess knowledge, attitude and practice regarding diabetic retinopathy among the diabetic patients attending Ophthalmology OPD in Goa Medical College.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a cross-sectional prospective study conducted among diabetic patients attending Ophthalmology OPD. Data was collected from 455 cases by convenient sampling method after taking their informed consent using a pretested structured questionnaire.

RESULTS

Among the 455 diabetic patients who participated in the study, 63.7% were males. 49.8% were above 60 years of age. 52.7% were diabetic since 6 - 9 years. 67% had higher than primary education. 78% respondents were aware that diabetes could affect eyes. 33.4% believed that only medication was available to treat diabetic retinopathy. 25% were aware about LASER as a modality of treatment. 57.1% would report to an ophthalmologist in the event of an eye problem. 67% opined that a person with diabetes should visit an Ophthalmologist even if his diabetes is under control. 66.1% believed that timely treatment can prevent damage due to diabetes in eyes. 48.3% followed up annually for an eye examination.

CONCLUSION

This study concludes that although there is a high level of knowledge about diabetic retinopathy, compliance in terms of annual routine eye examination is low. Action needs to be taken to identify the barriers in eye care seeking practices among the diabetics and bridge the gap between knowledge and practice by individual.

KEY WORDS

Diabetes Mellitus, Diabetic Retinopathy, KAP, Screening.