Awareness About Keratoconus and Its Relation With Eye Rubbing: A Cross-Sectional Study in Riyadh.
PMID 42005665 | PMCID PMC13087611 | DOI 10.1002/hsr2.72006 · Health science reports · 2026
BACKGROUND: Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease affecting the cornea, the clear dome- shaped structure at the front of the eye. In keratoconus, the cornea thins and bulges outward into a cone shape, leading to loss of visual acuity. The aetiology of keratoconus remains unclear, but it involves both genetic and environmental factors. Eye rubbing is a well-established risk factor for keratoconus. Previous studies in Saudi Arabia highlighted a concerning lack of awareness about keratoconus among the general population. AIM: This study aimed to assess the awareness of keratoconus and its relationship with eye rubbing among the population in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, involving 341 participants using an online pre-designed questionnaire from August to September 2024. RESULTS: A total of 341 participants completed the questionnaire. Participant age ranged from 18 to > 60 years. More than half of the participants (n = 215; 63%) were female. Regarding the overall awareness about keratoconus, 102 participants (29.9%) demonstrated a good awareness level; the most common source of information reported was social media (20%). Notably, 276 participants (81%) reported rubbing their eyes because of allergies (8%), headache or fatigue (28%), and itching (58%). CONCLUSION: The present study in Riyadh indicated that many participants had a poor awareness of keratoconus and its potential relationship with eye rubbing. It is essential to enhance public awareness through health education programmes.
Validated evidence
| Type | Entity | Source evidence | Confidence | Extractor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| population | Saudi Arabia, Riyadh | “Awareness About Keratoconus and Its Relation With Eye Rubbing: A Cross-Sectional Study in Riyadh. Previous studies in Saudi Arabia highlighted a concerning lack of awareness about keratoconus among the general population. AIM: This study aimed to assess the awareness of keratoconus and its relationship with eye rubbing among the population in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, involving 341 participants using an online pre-designed questionnaire from August to September 2024. CONCLUSION: The present study in Riyadh indicated that many participants had a poor awareness of keratoconus and its potential relationship with eye rubbing.” | 0.95 | saudi_context_rules_v1 |