Factors associated with eye care seeking behaviors in rural Malawi: A cross-sectional study

Abstract Background Eye care-seeking behavior plays a critical role in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of various eye conditions, enabling individuals to maintain good visual health and overall well-being. The study focused on three objectives: knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding eye care. Methods The study employed quantitative methods approach, utilizing a cross-sectional study design. A total of 391 participants took part in the study. Multistage and systematic random sampling techniques were used to select participants. The data was collected using questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS version 24. The study was conducted around the Livingstonia catchment area, a typical rural setting of Malawi Results The results showed knowledge gaps on eye care, for instance; participants were asked about the causes of decreased vision and blindness, and they responded that excess sunlight (67%, n=262 ), and eye injury (84%, n=328 ) were not part of the causes of decreased vision and blindness. On practices, the results indicated that (81%, n=317 ) never got their eyes checked and facial cleanliness (59%, n=231) was the major way of protecting their eyes. On attitudes, the participants said that distance (61%, n=239 ) and cost of service (72%, n=282 ) highly affected their access to eye care services. Conclusion The study uncovered important factors that contributed to the low uptake of eye care services. Therefore, we recommend that outreach clinics, subsidizing eye care services through government service level agreements, and community awareness campaigns should be introduced and intensified.