Abstract:
The purpose of the present study was to
assess the practice of ocular self-medication
among people of the Cape Coast Metropolis,
Central Region of Ghana. A population-based
survey involving 421 respondents ≥18 years old
was conducted. A pre-tested interview-based
questionnaire was used to collect data on
demographics, ocular symptoms for which self-
medication was practiced, medical knowledge
and self-care orientation. Households were
systematically and randomly selected as study
units. Analysis was done using SPSS version
16. Descriptive results were expressed as fre-
quency, percentage, and mean±standard devi-
ation, χ2 test was used for associations, and
logistic regression was used to test for predic-
tors of the practice of ocular self-medication.
Prevalence of ocular self-medication was
23.3% with itchy eye being the main ocular
symptom for which self-medication was prac-
ticed. Local pharmacies were the main source
of drug for ocular self-medication. There was
no association between medical knowledge
and the practice of ocular self-medication
(χ2=0.126; P=0.722). Some 25.5% experienced
adverse effects. In conclusion, the practice of
ocular self-medication was without recourse to
adequate concept of the practice of self-care
but its negative effect was mitigated by the low
self-care orientation of the people.
