Awareness of strabismus and associated factors among adults in Jimma town, Southwest Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract Background: Strabismus is a common problem that mostly affects children. Awareness of eye diseases is important in encouraging people to seek early treatment, which further helps in reducing the burden of visual impairment. The aim of this study was to assess awareness of strabismus and associated factors among adults in Jimma town, Southwest Ethiopia. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on adults in Jimma Town using a pretested structured questionnaire from June 1 to June 30, 2022. A sample size of 631 was determined by using a single proportion formula and taking an awareness of strabismus of 52.3% from the most recent local study, a 95% confidence interval, a 5% margin of error, a nonresponse rate of 10%, and a design effect of 1.5. Binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with awareness of strabismus. A multivariable logistic regression model was performed, and a p value <0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance. Results:A total of 584 individuals were interviewed with a response rate of 92.5%. A total of 43.7% of the participants were found to have a good level of awareness of strabismus. In addition, a statistically significant association was found between the level of awareness of strabismus and age, previous eye examination, and level of education. The most common source of information was the community. Conclusions: The study found that a significant proportion of the participants had poor awareness of strabismus, particularly regarding its causes and treatment options. Thus, it is better if awareness creation is facilitated by the responsible bodies for the community.