Abstract
BACKGROUND: Eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma significantly contribute to vision impairment and blindness worldwide. While cataracts are the leading cause of preventable blindness, glaucoma, often referred to as the "silent thief of sight", can lead to irreversible vision loss if untreated. Despite their prevalence, awareness and understanding of these conditions remain low, particularly in regions like Saudi Arabia, where demographic changes and rising diabetes rates exacerbate the burden of eye diseases. This study aims to assess the knowledge and perceptions of cataracts and glaucoma among residents of Jazan to identify gaps and inform public health interventions. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among participants aged 18 years and older in Jazan. The structured questionnaire assessed demographic information, awareness of cataracts and glaucoma, understanding of symptoms, and perceptions of treatment options. Data collection took place over four weeks, with statistical analysis performed using descriptive statistics to summarize findings. RESULTS: A total of 426 participants completed the survey. Of these, 43.9% (n = 186) were aware of cataracts, while only 28.1% (n = 119) recognized glaucoma. Awareness of cataract symptoms varied, with 43.4% (n = 184) identifying blurred vision; however, 71.5% (n = 303) reported being unaware of glaucoma. A significant majority (68.2%, n = 289) recognized surgical treatment for cataracts, but only 27.8% (n = 118) were aware of treatment options for glaucoma. High levels of uncertainty about both conditions suggest a critical lack of understanding in the community. CONCLUSION: This study emphasizes the need for improved awareness and understanding of cataracts and glaucoma in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. By implementing targeted public health strategies, healthcare providers can enhance knowledge, encourage regular eye examinations, and ultimately reduce the burden of visual impairment in the community.