Knowledge, attitude and practice of eye diseases in children among paediatricians in Kenya

Abstract

Objective: To assess knowledge, attitude and practice of childhood eye diseases among paediatricians working in Kenya.
Methods: The study was carried out among paediatricians working in the various hospitals and clinics in Kenya.A semi structured questionnaire was distributed to consenting paediatricians for completion. Dependent variables were knowledge attitude and practice. Independent variables were age, sex, duration and type of practice. The data was analyzed using STATA. Level of knowledge was grouped according to Bloom’s original cut-off points into good (>80%), moderate (60-80%) and poor (< 60%).
Results: Out of the 125 paediatricians who responded, 69.6% had a level of knowledge classifiable as poor, 28.0% moderate and 2.4% good. The mean score of participants in this study was 58.20%. However participants showed varied levels of knowledge in different subject matters. Sixty nine point six per cent of paediatricians carry out eye examination in children, though this varied with each participant doing only the test they are familiar with. Their referral of children with eye diseases to an ophthalmologist was found to be generally appropriate. The attitudes of participants in the various subject areas raised were positive. Ninety nine point two per cent of participants agreed that eye examination by paediatricians could help with early referral of retinoblastoma.
Conclusion: The participants had poor level of knowledge of childhood eye diseases. However their attitude and practice was generally positive. Their knowledge could be boosted with regular continuous medical education on eye diseases.