A study on knowledge, attitude and practices among parents towards children with strabismus in Goa

Context: Strabismus is one of the most common ocular morbidities affecting children, with a prevalence of 3 to 5% among children. Early diagnosis and treatment is very essential for successful treatment, which is only possible if the parents notice the signs and symptoms of strabismus early and seek timely treatment from qualified Ophthalmologists. Aims: To assess the level of knowledge, attitude & practices among parents towards children suffering from strabismus in Goa. Settings and Design: Cross-sectional study. Materials and Methods: 75 parents of children with strabismus and aged between 6 months to 14 years were administered a pretested proforma containing 12 questions, which included questions to assess their knowledge about strabismus and their attitudes and practices towards the condition, as well as their educational qualifications. Statistical Analysis Used: Percentages and proportions. Results: 90.66% had noticed the deviation of the eyes on their own. 81.33% were bothered by their child's strabismus. 74.66% reported that other people notice their child's strabismus. 76% felt uncomfortable when asked about their child's strabismus. 53.33% were aware that strabismus may come in the way of their child's scholastic performance and 44% feared fewer opportunities at school. 44% felt that their child has difficulty in socialising. 65.33% were aware about its effects on their child's vision. 48% attributed psychological effects in their child due to strabismus. 56% were aware that strabismus is treatable. Conclusion: Hence health education is very important to increase the awareness and change myths about strabismus; thus making early diagnosis and successful treatment possible.