Awareness, Knowledge, and Perception of Strabismus Among Parents and Caregivers of Children Attending Paediatric Eye Clinic

Abstract

Background: Strabismus, a common eye condition affecting children, can lead to various complications, emphasizing the need for early detection and management. This study aimed to assess parental knowledge, awareness, and perception of strabismus at the paediatric eye clinic of Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) in Nairobi, Kenya. Broad objective: This study sought to investigate the knowledge, awareness, and perception of strabismus among parents and caregivers of children attending the paediatric eye clinic at Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the paediatric eye clinic at KNH between 17th July 2023 and 4th August 2023. Parents/caregivers who were interviewed were selected using a consecutive sampling method. A structured questionnaire was used to conduct these interviews. Results: The study involved 96 parents and caregivers (88.5% females, 93.8% parents). A high level of awareness was found in 40.6% of respondents, significantly associated with a family history of strabismus (p<0.001) and eye disease (p<0.001). Only 42.7% correctly defined strabismus, with heredity being the most recognized cause (33.3%) and dehydration frequently mistaken as one (21.9%). Treatment options were correctly identified by 56.3% for glasses, 49% for surgery, and 44.8% for eye muscle exercise. Relatives/friends (47.9%) and internet/social media (40.6%) were common knowledge sources. Participants highly appreciated parents' roles, especially in early detection (99.0%) and compliance with treatment (96.9%). Both sexes showed moderate knowledge, with no significant difference based on education level. Positive attitudes towards strabismus management were notably observed, particularly among mothers, despite identified misconceptions and underestimation of its psychosocial and economic impacts. Conclusion: Many parents/caregivers lacked adequate awareness and understanding of the causes of strabismus, but most had moderate to excellent knowledge. Most participants had a positive overall perception about strabismus