Awareness of Keratoconus and Its Association With Eye Rubbing Among the Population in Aseer Province

Background: Keratoconus (KC), is a non-inflammatory, bilateral, asymmetrical, progressive disease characterized by ectasia, thinning, increasing corneal curvature, and loss of visual acuity. In Saudi Arabia, it was discovered that KC has been the main reason for corneal transplantation in the past 20 years. Eye rubbing is considered one of the most significant risk factors for KC based on available data. Participants and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among adults in Aseer province, Saudi Arabia in 2023. Data were collected through a pre-designed online questionnaire consisting of 17 questions divided into three sections. The questionnaire was preceded by informed consent and insured to maintain the confidentiality of the data. Results: A total of 498 respondents were included in this study. The majority of the study's participants were in the 18 to 25 age group and females made up the majority. The majority of participants had a university education. 41.6% of individuals reported experiencing an allergic disorder, 59.0% reported having knowledge about KC, and the overall participants’ awareness regarding KC was poor at 85.74%, with the highest percentage of good awareness (22.2%) detected among the 18-25 age group. Conclusion: The study revealed a concerning lack of awareness about KC among the population in Aseer Province, Saudi Arabia. Additionally, a significant percentage of participants engaged in eye rubbing, a behavior associated with increased risk for KC. There is a need for increased awareness about KC and the importance of avoiding eye rubbing.