Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among parents of myopic children regarding multifocal soft contact lenses. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Chongqing Eye and Vision Care Hospital from July 2024 to September 2024, targeting parents of myopic children. A structured questionnaire was administered to gather demographic data and assess KAP scores from respondents. Sufficient knowledge, positive attitude, and proactive practice were defined as scores > 70% of the possible maximum score in each dimension. RESULTS: A total of 547 non-problematic responses were analyzed, with 344 respondents (62.9%) identifying as female. Additionally, 173 respondents (31.6%) reported that their children used multifocal soft contact lenses. The mean scores for knowledge, attitudes, myopia management practices, and practices related to the use of multifocal soft contact lenses were 12.50 ± 4.77 (range: 0-22), 33.87 ± 2.61 (range: 9-45), 20.25 ± 2.65 (range: 5-25), and 21.11 ± 2.13 (range: 5-25), respectively. Structural equation modeling revealed that knowledge exerted a direct effect on attitude (β = 0.706, P < 0.001) and practice (β = 0.213, P = 0.012), while attitude had a direct effect on practice (β = 0.293, P = 0.001). Additionally, knowledge had an indirect effect on practice via attitude (β = 0.207, P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Parents of myopic children exhibited insufficient knowledge but generally positive attitudes and proactive practices toward the use of multifocal soft contact lenses. Implementing educational initiatives aimed at enhancing parents' knowledge may lead to more informed and effective myopia management practices for children. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Not applicable.