Socio-demographic factors that predispose people to glaucoma among the patients receiving eye care services in the eye clinic at Jinja regional referral hospital (JRRH). A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background

Glaucoma is an ocular disease that leads to irreversible blindness. The study aims to identify the socio-demographic factors predisposing people to glaucoma among the patients receiving eye care services in the eye clinic at JRRH.

Methodology

A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted because data was collected at one point. A non-probability convenient sampling process was used since a specific group of patients with glaucoma was required among patients above 40 years of age receiving eye health services at JRRH.

Results

The majority (70%) of the respondents were married, 20% had separated from their spouses, then the widows were 8.33%, and (1.67) % singles. Based on the places of residence, people who lived in villages scored a percentage of 75% and those in town scored a percentage of 25% Based on the nature of the occupation, the self-employed scored the highest percentage of 33.33%, followed by business people with a percentage of 25% then civil servants with a percentage of 18.33%, and finally others with a percentage of 23.33%. The uneducated scored the highest percentage of 70%, followed by diploma and certificate holders with the same percentage of 13.33%, and finally the degree holders with a percentage of 3.33%.

Conclusion

The significant socio-demographic factors predisposing people to glaucoma are age above 40 years, and living in rural areas.

Recommendation

The District Health Services should create awareness among the public regarding the disease.

All health workers should educate all diagnosed patients with glaucoma on the causes, effects, and prevention of glaucoma.