Knowledge and Practices of South African Optometrists Regarding Childhood Myopia Management

Myopia is a growing public health problem expected to affect half the global population by 2050, making appropriate management of the condition necessary. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the knowledge and practices of South African optometrists regarding childhood myopia management. A quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive design with a survey method was employed. An online questionnaire was distributed to practicing optometrists and included questions related to demographic information, knowledge of myopia and associated ocular pathologies, diagnostic work-up and management of childhood myopia. Data were summarised using descriptive statistics, and further analysed with univariate binary and ordinal logistic regression analysis where the independent variables were years of experience, certification and interest. A total of 124 completed questionnaires were received. The majority of participants used non-cycloplegic refraction and less than 20% performed dilated fundus examinations. Single vision distance spectacles were most commonly prescribed despite awareness of the efficacy of interventions to slow myopia progression. However, factors such as cost and the need for clinical guidelines limit the practice of evidence-based management. Participants were aware of some of the ocular pathologies associated with high myopia, indicating that this knowledge needs to be reinforced. Results from this study may be used to aid optometry policy development, regulatory council decisions and guide the content of professional development programmes to enhance knowledge.