AMBLYOPIA WITH RESPECT TO PARENTS AWARENESS AND PERCEPTIONS IN AL-JOUF REGION OF SAUDI ARABIA

Background/Objective: Amblyopia also known as lazy eye is an abnormal condition which is associated with decrease in an eye vision. Parents can play an important role in the management of amblyopia in their children, if they have correct information regarding the disease. The present study was conducted to check parents awareness and perception regarding the treatment, diagnosis, causes and consequences of amblyopia in Al-Jouf region of Saudi Arabia. Methodology: A questionnairebased study was conducted in Al-Jouf region of Saudi Arabia to fulfill the objectives of the study. A total of 429 parents aged between 19-45 years were included in the study. Out of 429 parents, 110 were males and 312 were females. Data obtained was analyzed both qualitatively and in percentages. Results: Majority of participants were of the opinion that there is no treatment for amblyopia 280 [66.4%], early treatment leads to better outcomes 369 [87.4%], can be best treated at young age 326 [77.3%] and condition worsens if left untreated 324 [76.8%]. It was observedthat parents occupation and source of knowledge regarding amblyopia is statistically significant with the amblyopia (p-value less than 0.05). Conclusion: In this study we reported that most of the parents are having mild to moderate level of knowledge regarding amblyopia. Furthermore, there is need for parents to increase their awareness level regarding the treatment options and causes of amblyopia.Social media has emerged as an important resource of information regarding amblyopia.