THE PREVALENCE OF PTERYGIUM AMONG PATIENTS ATTENDING THE EYE CLINIC AT JINJA REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Purpose of the study

To determine the prevalence of pterygium among patients aged 25-60 attending the Patient Department eye clinic at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital.

Methodology

The study used a descriptive cross-sectional design which was applied quantitatively. 60 respondents were chosen for the study and data was presented using frequency tables, pie charts, graphs, figures, and texts.

Results

From a total of 60 respondents examined, the prevalence of pterygium was 21(35%) in males and 39(65%) in females, 54(90%) had bilateral involvement while 6(10%) had unilateral involvement of pterygium.

Conclusion

The study established that pterygium is more prevalent among females than males, with more bilateral involvement than unilateral.

Recommendations

The Ministry of Health should design sensitization programs on the prevalence of pterygium. The district health officer should mobilize and sensitize the community workers and community members about the prevalence of pterygium.