AWARENESS AND KNOWLEDGE ABOUT CATARACT AND GLAUCOMA AMONG NON-OPHTHALMOLOGY HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS WORKING IN DIFFERENT CADRES AT TWO TERTIARY CARE HOSPITALS IN MIRPUR, AZAD KASHMIR

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Cataract and glaucoma are the leading causes of blindness and visual impairment in the general population, particularly in middle and old aged individuals. A very large number of patients presenting to the general medical OPDs with symptoms relating to noncommunicable diseases also have complaints pertaining to cataract and glaucoma and those complaints are often attended by non-ophthalmology healthcare professionals having different levels of academic qualifications. This study was conducted to evaluate the level of awareness and knowledge about cataract and glaucoma in non-ophthalmology healthcare professionals working in various cadres, including specialists, junior doctors and paramedics at two tertiary care hospitals in Mirpur, Azad Kashmir. The results of the study indicate lack of basic cataract and glaucoma knowledge in consultants and paramedical staff. On the other hand medical officers were found to have sufficient knowledge of the diseases. Health education programs targeting non-Ophthalmology healthcare providers will help improve the accuracy of advice offered to patients and may enhance early detection and treatment.