Knowledge and practice on solar ultraviolet radiation and its impact on vision: a case study among Kenyan optometrists
Abstract
Background: The purpose of the study was to investigate optometrist’s knowledge and practice on solar ultraviolet
radiation and its implication on vision.
Material and method: A survey was conducted using purposive sampling. The study was conducted from January 2020 to February 2020 using emailed questionnaires. Basic socio-demographic characteristics, participants’ knowledge and practice on solar ultraviolet radiation were assessed. The key variables under consideration were knowledge and practice on solar ultraviolet radiation. Odds ratios were calculated and chi-square test conducted.
Results: A total of 270 optometrists received the survey with a response rate of 81% and mean age of 26.4 ± 4.3 years. Only 36% had good knowledge of the effects produced by solar radiation. On attenuation knowledge only 1% recommended contrast filters, 13% polarizing lenses and 4% polycarbonate. There solar ultraviolet radiation and cortical cataract (p = 0.012) was significantly different. Men had good knowledge about cataract (OR = 1.63, 95% CI = 1.56–1.76), keratopathy (OR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.35–1.56), and pterygium (OR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.32–1.43). Most respondents 66% could only dispense Photochromatic lenses because they are readily available.
Conclusion: The study denotes that solar ultraviolet radiation is an issue of global public health concern. Awareness is still a challenge and optometrists are well placed to create awareness. Public health act should initiate a policy on the attenuation of solar ultraviolet radiation.
Keywords: solarultravioletradiationoptometristsknowledgepractice
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