Awareness, knowledge, and perception of strabismus among parents and caregivers of children attending the paediatric eye clinic at the Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya

Abstract

Background: Strabismus, a common eye condition affecting children, can lead to various complications, emphasising 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 in Nairobi, Kenya.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study done in the paediatric eye clinic at Kenyatta National Hospital between 17th July 2023 and 4th August 2023. A consecutive sampling method was used to select parents/caregivers who were interviewed using a structured questionnaire.

Results: The study involved all the recruited 96 parents and caregivers (88.5% females, 93.8% parents). A high level of aware- ness 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 recognised cause (33.3%) and dehydration frequently mistaken as one (21.9%). Treatment options were correctly identified by 56.3% for glasses, 49.0% 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: Nearly half of caregivers demonstrated high awareness of strabismus, with most showing adequate treatment knowledge, though significant gaps persisted in recognising early signs and understanding causes. Importantly, the majority maintained positive perceptions of strabismus management, suggesting a foundation for targeted educational interventions.