Glaucoma knowledge and attitudes among diagnosed participants at a Vhembe clinic, South Africa

Abstract

Background: Glaucoma remains a major public health concern worldwide. Most patients are dropping out of care, oblivious to the symptomless nature of glaucoma disease.Aim: This study aimed to investigate glaucoma knowledge and attitudes among those diagnosed with the condition in the Limpopo province (South Africa).Setting: The study was conducted at Elim Hospital in the Vhembe District of the Limpopo province, South Africa.Methods: The design of this study was cross-sectional and quantitative in approach. Those diagnosed with glaucoma and receiving eye care treatment at a district hospital in Limpopo province were purposively selected to participate in the study. Quantitative data on knowledge and attitudes towards glaucoma was collected and analysed using a self-administered questionnaire.Results: Eighty-nine purposively selected glaucoma patients, with an average age of 61.20 ± 14.77 years, participated in the study. Participants had an average knowledge score of 43 ± 20.87, with over 50% demonstrating an understanding of the importance of follow-up care, that treatment can slow the condition, and that the condition can progress rapidly if left untreated. The socio-demographic factors found to be statistically significant in relation to glaucoma knowledge were education and the duration of the condition, with p-values of 0.000 and 0.002, respectively. Concerns regarding the condition were expressed by the majority of participants, totalling 82% (n = 73).Conclusion: Awareness programmes need to be implemented to spread knowledge about the nature of glaucoma and the importance of adherence to treatment among those with low levels of education and newly diagnosed patients.Contribution: Awareness and knowledge regarding glaucoma can assist patients in treatment adherence, alleviation of the disease burden and concerns related to the eventuality of becoming blind.