Background: Recently, contact lenses (CLs) have become quite popular as a source of optical correction and a cosmetic trend, especially among Saudi female university students. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of CL use and the prevalence of CL-related ocular complications among Majmaah University Saudi female students, in Al Majmaah City in 2019.
Methods: Using a multistage proportionate sampling technique, Saudi females from five colleges of Majmaah University were enrolled. Data were collected by a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. The calculated sample size was 380.
Results: The overall prevalence of CL wear among students was 67%. Half (51%) of the participants wore CLs for cosmetic purposes. Concerning eyewear preferences, the majority (64%) preferred wearing CLs, whereas 26% preferred spectacles. Acknowledging CLs complications, 43.5% reported corneal abrasion. Good knowledge was associated with good hygiene practice (p < 0.05) and, therefore, lesser complications.
Conclusion: CL use is highly prevalent among Majmaah University female students. 21-23 years of age, cosmetic reason for CLs wear, and noncompliance behaviors are associated with a high risk of CL-related ocular complications. Therefore, it is suggested to consider the identified risk factors in the current study in the care of CLs wear, which can help to focus on effective prevention and treatment strategies.
Key words: Contact lens, corneal abrasion, cosmetic, hygiene, red eye
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