Awareness of Diabetic Eye Diseases and Eye Care Practices Among Diabetic Outpatients in Onitsha, South-Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Diabetic eye diseases comprise a range of ocular complications resulting from diabetes mellitus (DM) and are a significant global health concern due to their high prevalence and potential for vision loss. Objectives: This study assessed the level of awareness, prevalence, and patterns of diabetic eye diseases, as well as eye care practices among individuals living with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 128 consenting individuals with T2DM attending the diabetes clinic of a private specialist hospital in Onitsha, South-eastern Nigeria. Data were collected using a structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire capturing relevant socio-clinical information. Laboratory assessments included glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting plasma glucose levels. Clinical evaluations involved fundoscopy, anthropometric measurements, and blood pressure assessment. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25. Results: Among the 128 participants, 52 (40.6%) were male and 76 (59.4%) were female, with a mean age of 59.41 ± 12.32 years and a mean DM duration of 9.80 ± 8.14 years. Overall, 87.5% were aware that diabetes could affect the eyes. Diabetic eye disease was present in 59% of participants, with 52% reporting cloudy vision, 10% cataract, and 3% retinal haemorrhage. Ophthalmologic evaluation had been done by 66.4% of participants, although only 35.2% underwent eye examinations more than once per year. Conclusion: The study revealed a high prevalence of diabetic eye complications among T2DM patients, with suboptimal frequency of ophthalmologic evaluations. Strengthening patient education and routine eye screening is essential to improve early detection and prevent vision-threatening complications.