Survey of Patient Opinions on Eyeglasses and Eye Care in Rural and Slum Populations in Chennai

Background: Uncorrected refractive error is a common cause of avoidable visual impairment that can be corrected with eyeglasses. Patients must wear their eyeglasses to correct such refractive errors and their perceptions of eyeglasses and eye health may affect their compliance with wearing their spectacles. Objectives: This study was conducted to learn about people’s basic perspectives and knowledge of eye glasses and eye health in Chennai. Methods: Non-randomized 7 question survey of patients attending Uma Clinic Eye Camps in slums and rural areas of Chennai. Results: 78 subjects completed the survey. Most subjects were women (85.6%) , had presbyopia (75.6%), required corrective lenses (82.1%) and their average age was 45 +/8.7 years. Most subjects (66.7%) had heard of eyeglasses and understood why they may wear them. However, 9-47.4% did not know why glasses may be worn, did not know what was wrong with their eyes, were unsure if they needed eyeglasses or why people may lose their eyesight. 16.7% of subjects believed eyeglasses were an effective treatment for headache. Conclusions: We conclude that providing basic education on the types of refractive error and other causes of low vision, how eyeglasses may or may not help, discussion of common treatments for eye problems and clear instructions on when and when not to wear eyeglasses would be useful.