Knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) regarding refractive errors among medical undergraduates in Colombo district: A descriptive study

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from June to August 2019 among 255 medical undergraduates. After obtaining the ethics approval, the pretested questionnaire was distributed via google forms. The responses were analyzed using standard statistical software.

Results: The data was collected from 255 (59.7%) students, with age ranging from 20-29 years (mean 23.5 years), females represented 70%, of the total study population. 25% were from final year and 17% were studying in the first year. Most of the respondents (87%) were familiar with the term refractive errors. However only 51% were able to describe the basic types of refractive errors accurately. 46% believed prolonged usage of corrective lens would lead to dependence. 7% said they didn’t know that eyes had to be checked regardless of eye diseases. Recent advances in refractive error correction such as lasik surgery was known to only 55% and 3% thought there is no treatment option for refractive errors.

Discussion and conclusion: Majority of medical undergraduates were aware of refractive errors. However, there were many misconceptions on the subject and lapse in knowledge which necessitates regular revision of ophthalmic education in order to cater to the expanding needs of patients in the future.