Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the level of awareness about glaucoma among residents of the Bisha governorate in Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional survey was carried out in Bisha, Asir Province, among adults aged 18 years and older. A total of 388 participants were recruited through convenience sampling, slightly exceeding the required sample size of 385 calculated using Cochrane’s formula (50% expected prevalence, 5% margin of error, and 95% confidence interval). Data were collected using a validated, self-administered questionnaire that assessed demographic characteristics, awareness, knowledge, and practices related to glaucoma. The questionnaire was distributed primarily via social media platforms.
Results: Of the 388 participants, 87.6% had previously heard of glaucoma, most commonly through hospitals or healthcare providers (54.6%). While 90.7% recognized that glaucoma produces symptoms and 76.3% identified high intraocular pressure as a feature, only 21.6% were aware of its hereditary component. Peripheral vision loss was the most frequently recognized symptom (73.2%), and surgery was the treatment most often selected (62.9%). Awareness showed significant associations with place of residence, educational attainment, occupation, and household income (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Adults in Bisha governorate demonstrated relatively high general awareness of glaucoma; however, important gaps remain regarding hereditary risk and treatment adherence. Sociodemographic characteristics, including residence, education, occupation, and income, were significant predictors of awareness. Targeted health education programs are warranted to address these gaps, particularly among non-medical and less-educated groups.

Key words: Glaucoma, awareness, blindness, optic nerve, Saudi Arabia