Individual and environmental-related factors associated with closed globe injuries among patients attending health services at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital. A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background:

Closed globe injuries were often seen in children while playing with friends and at home. The study aims to determine individual and environmental factors associated with closed globe injuries among patients receiving eye care services in Jinja regional referral hospital.

 Methods:

A cross-sectional descriptive study design applying both qualitative and quantitative methods, using a purpose sampling technique to collect subjects. One hundred respondents were chosen for the study, and data were presented using frequency tables, pie charts, graphs, figures, and text.

 Results:

From a total of 100 respondents, 51 %( 51) were aged between 16 and 30 years, 75 %( 75) were males. Most 37% (n=37) played football. With regards to the residence of patients, 64% (n=64) hailed from the rural areas and 36% (n=36) resided in urban areas. Injuries were most sustained at home, going up to 59%, followed by at school. With regard to where the injury was sustained, the majority of cases were evidenced to have occurred at home, of 59% (n=100), followed by school, 26% (n=100). Agricultural-related injuries were the most common, with an incidence of 46% (n=100). Most respondents agreed 83% (n=100) social economic status of an individual is associated with closed globe injuries.

 Conclusion:

CGI was more prevalent in people aged 16 to 30 years, males, and those who consume alcohol. Most injuries were acquired during different games, at home, and many were agricultural-related injuries. Most of the victims’ hard-risk jobs, like farming and agriculture, did not use protective gear on the eyes.

 Recommendation:

Supervision of children during playing time. Use of protective gear at work and during harmful games.