Knowledge and Awareness of Age-Related Eye Conditions among Adults in Oforikrom Municipality, Ghana

Awareness of Age-Related Eye Conditions Among Adults

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and knowledge regarding age-related eye conditions among adults in Oforikrom Municipality, Ghana.

Methods: A population-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among adults aged 40 years and above in the Oforikrom Municipality. A structured interviewer-guided questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic characteristics, awareness, knowledge, and sources of information regarding age-related eye conditions. Descriptive statistics were used to present data as frequencies and percentages. A logistic regression analysis was employed to determine relationships between variables.

Results: A total of 250 participants responded to the questionnaire. The mean (±SD) age of the participants was 51.2 (±9.4) years. Of the participants, 55.2% were females, 69.6% were employed, and 80.0% had formal education. Awareness of cataract (94.4%) and glaucoma (74.0%) was high in this population, while they were low for presbyopia (36.4%) and age-related macular degeneration (7.2%). The major sources of information on age-related eye conditions were: family and friends (16.7%), television (14.9%), and healthcare professionals (11.4%). Participants demonstrated low knowledge of the conditions: cat racts (57.2%), glaucoma (82.0%), presbyopia (86.4%) and AMD (97.2%). Religious affiliation (p=0.003), higher level of education (p=0.001) and frequent eye examination (p=0.025) were found to be positively associated with awareness of cataract, glaucoma and AMD, respectively.

Conclusion: The study revealed high awareness of cataract and glaucoma, but low for presbyopia and AMD. Interventions, particularly ocular health education on age-related eye conditions, should be intensified to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.