Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cataract and diabetic retinopathy among middle-aged population and older adults in a rural area at eastern China.

BACKGROUND: Cataract and diabetic retinopathy (DR) are the leading causes of visual impairment and blindness among middle-aged and older adults. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of cataract and DR among middle-aged and older adults residing in a rural region of Eastern China. METHODS: This cross-sectional study was carried out from March to September 2024, targeting middle-aged and older adults aged 40 to 80 years residing in the rural region of Huanggang town, Shanxian county, Shandong province. Participants provided demographic data, as well as information on their knowledge, attitudes, and practices, through a self-administered questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 460 questionnaire responses were incorporated into the analysis. The mean scores for knowledge regarding cataracts, knowledge concerning DR, attitude, and practice were 14.54 ± 8.14 (possible range: 0-28), 23.84 ± 17.64 (possible range: 0-46), 37.02 ± 8.09 (possible range: 9-45), and 26.02 ± 5.33 (possible range: 8-40), respectively. The analysis indicated that knowledge of DR was positively associated with attitude (β = 0.565, 95% CI: 0.454 to 0.675, p < 0.001), whereas knowledge of cataract was positively associated with practice (β = 0.428, 95% CI: 0.298 to 0.558, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: This study revealed that while the knowledge and practices regarding cataracts and DR among the rural middle-aged and older adults population in the area remain inadequate, there is a prevalent desire for increased support and education. Consequently, it is imperative for relevant departments and healthcare organizations to implement measures aimed at educating both patients and the general public about cataracts and DR.