Mohammed Qassim Baktash Ph.D
Department of Clinical Science Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, University of Telafer. Iraq
Iman Mohammed Saeed, Ph.D
Department of Basic Science Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, University of Telafer. Iraq
Ali Ismael Sulaiman, M.Sc.
Department of Clinical Science Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, University of Telafer. Iraq
ABSTRACT
Background: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a significant long-term complication of diabetes mellitus, often resulting from poor glycemic control. It is a leading cause of visual impairment and blindness, with nearly all patients with insulin-dependent diabetes and over 60% of those with non-insulin-dependent diabetes developing DR within the first two decades of the disease. Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge of diabetic patients in Telafer City regarding the risk factors, symptoms, and management of diabetic retinopathy. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the awareness of diabetic patients attending Telafer Hospital and primary healthcare centers in Telafer City. The study took place in Iraq's Nineveh Governorate, Telafer City, from September 25, 2022, to May 1, 2023. A total of 178 diabetic patients were selected using a purposive convenience sampling method. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire covering symptoms, complications, and preventive measures for DR. Results: The findings revealed that 42.1% of participants had an average level of knowledge about the symptoms and complications of DR, while 42.1% demonstrated moderate knowledge in eye care practices and treatment of DR. Overall, the general knowledge of diabetic patients about DR was moderate. Conclusion and Recommendations: The majority of study participants were male, married, and aged 40–49 years. Their general knowledge about diabetic retinopathy was moderate to poor. This highlights the urgent need for targeted health education programs to improve awareness among diabetic patients and the general population about diabetes management and the prevention and treatment of DR.
Keywords: Knowledge, Diabetic Patients, Retinopathy.
