Knowledge, attitude, and practices toward conjunctivitis among general population of central Karnataka - A cross-sectional study.

Background: Conjunctivitis is a widespread eye condition globally, with 2-5% of general practice consultations concerning eye issues. Infective conjunctivitis accounts for approximately 35% of eye-related cases, with an incidence of 13-14 per 1,000 individuals. Estimates on the prevalence of bacterial conjunctivitis in children vary widely. In light of the recent outbreak during the monsoon season in India, this study aimed to assess the population's perceptions and practices regarding conjunctivitis.

Objectives: 1. To explore the understanding of conjunctivitis among study participants. 2. To understand the practices followed in managing conjunctivitis.

Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the urban field practice area of JJM Medical College between August and October 2023. Participants included individuals aged over 18 years, with no current eye infection, who provided informed consent. Two hundred participants were enrolled in the study.

Results: The majority, 68 (34%), were aged 21-30 years, followed by 45 (22.5%) aged 31-40 years. The mean age was 36.2 ± 13.6 years. Most participants (129, 64.5%) were unaware of the cause of conjunctivitis, whereas 37 (18.5%) correctly identified bacteria as the cause. Half of the participants (101, 50.5%) recognized eye redness as a symptom. Most participants (146, 73%) sought medical consultation within 2-3 days of symptom onset. Additionally, 139 (69.5%) used antibiotic eye drops as per a doctor's prescription, while 20 (10%) self-medicated using previous prescriptions.

Conclusion: The study reveals a knowledge gap regarding the causes of conjunctivitis, though most participants sought timely medical attention. However, a small portion engaged in inappropriate self-medication practices, highlighting the need for better public health education.