AWARENESS ABOUT REFRACTIVE CORRECTIVE SURGERIES AMONG STUDENTS (18-25) AT ISRA UNIVERSITY, ISLAMABAD: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Refractive errors remain one of the most common causes of visual impairment worldwide, significantly affecting quality of life when left uncorrected. Spectacles and contact lenses are conventional solutions, but surgical interventions such as LASIK and PRK have gained widespread acceptance due to their effectiveness in reducing dependence on optical aids. Despite the growing popularity of these procedures, awareness about their availability, risks, and long-term outcomes remains inconsistent, particularly among young adults in developing countries.

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the level of awareness, sources of knowledge, and attitudes regarding refractive corrective surgeries among young adults at Isra University, Islamabad.

Methods: This quantitative, cross-sectional study was conducted among students of Isra University from 16 April to 30 May 2025. A purposive sampling strategy was employed, and data were collected from 265 participants using a pretested self-designed questionnaire. Variables included demographic details, knowledge of surgical types, awareness of risks and benefits, and preferred correction methods. Data entry and statistical analysis were performed using SPSS version 21.0, with descriptive statistics used to summarize findings.

Results: A total of 265 students (mean age 21.6 years) participated, comprising 136 males and 129 females. The majority used spectacles for refractive error correction. Awareness of surgical procedures was reported by 61.1% of participants, while 38.9% were unaware. Knowledge of specific procedures showed that 26.4% knew about LASIK, 14.0% about PRK, and 26.4% about both, whereas 33.2% had no knowledge. Social media, family, and physicians were cited as sources of information by 72.5% of participants, while 27.6% reported no source of knowledge. Regarding attitudes, 34.3% considered refractive surgeries the best correction method, while 37.4% favored spectacles and 28.3% contact lenses.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that young adults at Isra University demonstrated a moderate to good level of awareness about refractive corrective surgeries, with social media serving as the predominant source of knowledge. Although many participants recognized the benefits and risks of these procedures, reliance on non-professional sources highlights the need for continuous education and professional guidance to improve informed decision-making.