Knowledge and attitude towards strabismus among parents of Saudi children with strabismus

Abstract

Background: For early detection and timely management of strabismus in children, parent’s cooperation is essential. It depends upon their level of awareness. The objective was to describe the determinants and the level of knowledge and attitude towards strabismus among parents of children with strabismus in Saudi Arabia.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2018 at a hospital in Qaseem, Saudi Arabia. Consented parents of children with strabismus presenting to Qaseem University eye clinic were interviewed. Data were anonymously collected on participant demographics and the child’s strabismus. The survey interview consisted of 8 questions related to signs, symptoms, and management of strabismus. Three questions related to the attitude towards strabismus among parents/caregivers. Two separate questions queried the source of knowledge and possible barriers, respectively.Results: Each parent of 81 children was interviewed. An excellent level of knowledge of strabismus was noted for 41 participants (50.6% at 95%CI 39.7-61.5). A positive attitude towards strabismus was noted in 57 participants (70.4% at 95% CI 60.4-80.3). No history of surgery was statistically associated to an excellent level of knowledge (P<0.001). Gender (P=0.7), age (P=0.7), father’s education (P=0.3), mother’s education (P=0.5), type of strabismus (P=0.8) were not associated with the level of knowledge. High cost (43.2%) and false beliefs (53.1%) were the main barriers to medical consultations.Conclusions: Parents of children with strabismus presenting to a tertiary care eye hospital had good knowledge about the signs, symptoms and management of strabismus. Addressing barriers perceived by parents may improve early presentation rates of children with strabismus allowing timely management.