Unveiling the Veil: Exploring Diabetic Retinopathy Awareness and Behaviors of the General Population of Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a potentially blinding complication of diabetes mellitus (DM). The current study set out to explore the awareness level and attitude of the general population of Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia, where DM prevalence is high. Methodology: Data was collected through community-based, self-administered questionnaires in the general population of Hafr Al Batin, Saudi Arabia. The study included 406 participants, and the analysis revealed varying levels of knowledge, attitude, and practices related to DR. The study also explored the associations between sociodemographic factors and knowledge, attitude, and practices related to DR. The analysis showed that the participants had medium (67.4%) knowledge levels, while 32.5% had low knowledge. Results: The participants comprised 55.7% males and 44.3% females, with varying education levels and economic statuses. The majority were diagnosed with diabetes (94.3%). Attitude scores revealed that 30.8% had a favorable attitude, and 69.2% had medium attitude levels. Regarding practices, 71.2% of the respondents had low practice levels. The association between sociodemographic factors and knowledge, attitude, and practice were also explored. Conclusion: The current study concluded a medium level of knowledge (67.4%), and attitude toward DR is also low (69.2%). More than half of the respondents followed a poor level of practice (71.2%). The results of the current investigation demonstrated that the general population does not have sufficient knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding DR in Saudi Arabia. By promoting greater knowledge and understanding of DR, the burden of visual impairment brought on by this complication can be lessened by early detection and efficient care.