Diabetic retinopathy awareness and knowledge among diabetic patients in northern Bangladesh

Md Sajidul Huq; Warasul Islam; Karolina Janiec; Mostak Ahmed Al Zafri; Kamarun Munira Anha

Md Sajidul Huq Department of Public Health, Deep Eye Care Foundation, Rangpur, Bangladesh
Warasul Islam School of Science and Technology, Bangladesh Open University, Gazipur, Bangladesh
Karolina Janiec Department of Internal Medicine, St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, Paterson, New Jersey, United States of America
Mostak Ahmed Al Zafri Department of Ophthalmology, Dhaka National Medical College, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Kamarun Munira Anha Department of Nutrition and Food Engineering, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Keywords: diabetic retinopathy, diabetes, eye health, awareness

Abstract

Diabetic retinopathy, a major complication of diabetes, is one of the leading causes of blindness globally. The purpose of this study was to explore the awareness and knowledge levels of diabetic retinopathy (DR) among diabetic patients in northern Bangladesh. The study sought to identify gaps in awareness and knowledge that may hinder early detection and timely treatment. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in diabetic hospitals located in northern Bangladesh from July to December 2023. A purposive sampling method was used to select 200 diabetic patients aged between 30 and 80 years. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. The collected data included socio-demographic characteristics, diabetes-related factors, and awareness and knowledge of DR. SPSS version 25 was used to analyze the data, and Chi-square tests were employed to explore associations between demographic factors and DR awareness. The results revealed that only 14% of participants had heard of diabetic retinopathy, while 86% were completely unaware of the condition. Of those who had some knowledge, the majority had a poor understanding of the causes, risks, and treatment options for DR. Education and occupation were found to be significant factors influencing awareness, with higher-educated individuals and service holders showing greater knowledge of DR. Additionally, 41% of participants had never undergone an eye examination, citing barriers such as cost, lack of information, and geographic challenges. The study concluded that there is a critical lack of awareness and understanding of diabetic retinopathy among diabetic patients in northern Bangladesh. Educational interventions are urgently needed to improve awareness and promote regular eye examinations. Overcoming barriers to access, such as cost and lack of information, is essential to prevent blindness due to diabetic retinopathy in this population.