Knowledge of and attitude to eye disorders among pediatricians in North Jordan

PURPOSE: To assess the general knowledge of and attitude to various common eye conditions in children among pediatricians in north Jordan. METHODS: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. An exploratory questionnaire was developed by the research team to collect the necessary qualitative information. RESULTS: In total, 48 pediatricians participated in the study. Around two-thirds performed eye examinations in children; however, only 10.4% (n = 5) carried out eye exams routinely as part of every child's health visit. The most common test done was assessment of red reflex, which was performed by only 60.4% (n = 29) of responders. Almost all participants (95.8%, n = 46) recognized the risk factors for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). The majority of pediatricians (n = 46, 95.8%) would immediately refer a child with suspected glaucoma to an ophthalmologist. In regard to leukocoria, the majority recognized cataract (n = 38, 79.2%) and retinoblastoma (n = 40, 83.3%) as major causes of this condition. Almost all pediatricians (n = 46, 95.8%) would immediately refer a child with leukocoria to an ophthalmologist. On the subject of refractive errors, only 62.5% (n = 30) of physicians confirmed that refractive errors could occur in children of any age and that they may need glasses. Nonetheless, 70.8% (n = 34) stated that refractive errors could be a cause of squint in children. Amblyopia and underlying central causes of squint were a major concern for most responders with 68.8% (n = 33) and 75% (n = 36), respectively. CONCLUSION: Although the knowledge of and attitude to eye disease among pediatricians were at a satisfactory level, the degree of collaboration with ophthalmologists is limited. More workshops need to be held for pediatricians.