Abstract
BACKGROUND: Keratoconus is an eye condition where the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped front part of the eye, becomes thinner and gradually bulges outward into a cone shape. Keratoconus usually affects both eyes. The exact cause of keratoconus is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. AIM: This study aims to assess the awareness level of keratoconus and its relation to eye rubbing among the population in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, involving all eligible participants via an online pre-designed questionnaire from March to June 2023. The data were collected through social media. RESULTS: A total of 388 eligible participants completed the study questionnaire. Participants' ages ranged from 19 to 60 years, with a mean age of 26.2 ± 13.9 years. There were 265 (68.3%) female participants. Regarding public awareness about keratoconus among participants in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia, our research revealed a total of 101 (26%) participants had an overall good awareness of keratoconus, while 287 (74%) had a poor awareness level. The most reported source of information included scientific lectures (21.6%). Precisely, 316 (81.4%) of the research subjects rub their eyes primarily because of allergies (7%), strain headaches (25%), and itching (66.5%). CONCLUSION: Most of the study participants have poor awareness about keratoconus and its relation to eye rubbing. Health education programs for the population should be conducted to enhance public awareness about keratoconus.