Awareness of glaucoma in the western region of Saudi Arabia

Aim: To evaluate the awareness about glaucoma among adults and its related health problems in Jeddah, Western region of Saudi Arabia and to assess the relationship between the awareness and knowledge about glaucoma across the socio-demographic characteristics. This will help to develop educational and screening programs of glaucoma which could help in early detection and diagnosis of the disease therefore reducing its sight threatening outcomes. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study which included a sample of 608 adults in June 2019. Participants took part filling in the online multiple choice sociodemographic and glaucoma awareness questionnaire. Results: The mean age of the participants was 28.3 years ±11.4 with (59.2%) males and (40.8%) females. The majority of the respondents 70.9% were single and the majority had a bachelor's degree. Overall, 66.3% of the participants had knowledge about glaucoma, whereas 33.7% had no previous knowledge about glaucoma. Significant association between higher educational level and awareness of glaucoma was (P= 0.024). Females and age group (?40) also showed significant associations with glaucoma awareness (P= <0.0001 and P= <0.0001 respectively). 58% of the aware group suffering from glaucoma and 36% have a family history or relatives diagnosed with glaucoma. High IOP and old age were the main risk factors chosen by the participants (74.2% and 72.5% respectively). The majority of the aware group reported that glaucoma can result in blindness and could be preventable. Conclusion: Assessing the glaucoma awareness in this study, the outcomes showed that majority had good knowledge of glaucoma. Larger surveys which include all cities of the country are suggested to assess the level of awareness and helps in establishing a proper educational and screening programs.  &nbsp

Computer Vision Syndrome among Undergraduate Medical Students in King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Introduction. Computer vision syndrome (CVS) is “a complex of eye and vision problems related to near work experienced during computer use.” It is one of the rising health concerns related to technology (cell phones and tablets) due to continuous use of computers among students. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of CVS, associated risk factors, and commonly associated symptoms and to assess the awareness and proper practice of using computers for studying. Methods. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 651 undergraduate medical students in King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. An electronic survey was conducted to collect the data. Data were analyzed using SPSS v21. The chi-square test (Fisher’s exact test when required) was used to study the significance of associations. P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results. High prevalence of CVS was observed, in which 95% (558) reported at least one symptom during studying using computers. Most frequently reported symptoms were excessive tearing and neck, shoulder, or back pain. Female students had a higher risk of CVS (P=0.003). Students who are myopic or hyperopic showed no association. Astigmatism was associated significantly with CVS (P=0.03). Using spectacles or contact lens showed no association. Students with dry eye disease revealed a significant association with CVS (P=0.01). The most significant risk factors related to the daily usage of computer were longer duration of studying (P<0.001), short distance from the screen (P<0.05), and high brightness of the screen (P<0.05). The most significant preventive measure taken to relieve the symptoms was applying the 20-20-20 rule. Conclusion. CVS is common among medical students; significant risk factors need to be addressed to reduce the symptom and to ensure a better productivity of work. It is a necessity to raise awareness among medical students regarding computer-related health problems