KNOWLEDGE, PERCEPTION AND PRACTICE OF BLUE LIGHT BLOCKING LENSES AMONG OPTOMETRISTS IN NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

The exposure to blue light from electronic devices, natural sunlight coupled with other sources of blue light, an energetic wavelength in the visible spectrum, has led to the innovation of optical materials such as blue light blocking lenses to reduce the harmful effect on visual system. Commercial availability of blue light-blocking lenses has raised the need to understand the factors that influence the prescription of blue light-blocking lenses among eye care practitioners. This study was aimed to assess the knowledge, perception, and practice pattern of blue-blocking lenses among optometrists in Nigeria. This study employed a cross-sectional survey with a well structured questionnaire (Google form online questionnaire) among optometrists in Nigeria. A total of 116 participants consisting of 39 males (33.6%) and 77 females (66.4%) were enrolled in this study. Majority of the participants were between the ages of 25 and 34 (35.3%). Findings from this study revealed that about 50% of the participants (OR 2.89: CI 1.38 - 6.08) had a signifcicant knowledge (P=0.003) about blue light wavelength. The odds of prescribing blue light blocking lenses were higher among practitioners who considered patients to be electronic device user (73.3%) or blue light as an important factor in causing computer vision syndrome (70.7%). Majority,(86%) of the participants considered daily exposure to blue light a significant factor (P=0.08) that causes retinal damage. The source of information for prescribing blue light blocking lenses for participants was based on clinical guidelines (60.0%). Highest level of eduction showed no significant (P =0.6) impact on the knowledge, practice and perception of blue light blocking lenses among optometrists. Practice patterns (e.g, private practice,75.9%) showed a significant impact (P=0.04) on the prescription of blue light blocking lenses. The perception of optometrists on the efficacy of blue light blocking lenses was moderate (55.0%) and also many respondents(77%) agreed that advertisement for blue light blocking lenses provided an accurate representation of the risks associated with blue light exposure. Keywords: Blue blocking lens, blue light, optometrists, knowledge, practice, perception.