Awareness About Glaucoma Management Among Physicians in Riyadh: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Glaucoma is an irreversible chronic disease that damages the optic nerve. Knowledge and skills related to glaucoma are extremely important for frontline physicians. This study aimed to determine the knowledge and management as well as examination and referral practices related to glaucoma among physicians at primary care centers and secondary hospitals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Method This was a cross-sectional study of 126 physicians, including general practitioners as well as emergency, internal, and family physicians from three hospitals and five medical centers in Riyadh. A validated self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. It was divided into six categories: sociodemographic data and practice setting; and glaucoma assessmentquestions regarding risk factors, knowledge, examination, management, and referral practices. Results Of the 126 participants, 32.8% were family physicians. Surprisingly, the overall knowledge score for glaucoma was suboptimal (34.2%). While half of the doctors were aware of the medications used in glaucoma, 88.7% considered themselves unqualified to manage glaucoma. Although 93.7% agreed that increased ocular pressure requires urgent referral to an ophthalmologist, only 33.3% stated they were comfortable using tonometry. Conclusion The majority of physicians (65.8%) showed a poor level of knowledge regarding glaucoma, which was reflected in their referral practices (66.9%). Therefore, promoting increased glaucoma awareness along with improved examination skills and referral practice among frontline physicians is essential to prevent this avoidable cause of blindness.

Knowledge and Awareness of Glaucoma Among People Living in Taif City in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia

“…This research initiative embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the depth and scope of glaucoma awareness within the intricate tapestry of Taif City. Nestled in the heart of western Saudi Arabia, this urban center encapsulates a dynamic amalgamation of individuals, each contributing a distinctive set of perspectives, beliefs, and lifestyles influenced by health literacy [7,8], social media platforms [9], educational backgrounds [10], cultural beliefs [11], and access to healthcare resources [12,13].…”