The Study of Attitude and Behavior of Contact Lens Users

Wichai Leelawongtawun M.D.

ABSTRACT : Objective : To study the types and factors that effect attitude and behavior of contact lens users.

Materials and Methods : The population in Bangkok and circumference were randomly interviewed by using the project questionnaire. Thereafter, the data were analyzed by percentage and chi square test.

Results : There were 425 interviewees, and 66.8% had refractive error, in which 91.2% had been corrected. There were 77.2% did not know the medical law, which regulated that assigned contact lens must be done by a physician, however the majority agreed with the the law (90.3%). Most of them (97.4%) accepted the opinion in publicizing the correct information of using contact lens. There were 108 interviewees used contact lens, and 10.2% cared the lens incorrectly. The lenses were prescribed from general optical shop, in a high unmbers (71.3%), Knowing the law could significant effect the acceptance service from a physician (p = 0.00856). Demonstration of using and caring the lens by the lens maker was the mode (80.6%). However, in proportion of phusicians used this modality more than general optical shops. There were 47.2% had problems from the lens, and more in those made the lens from general optical shops (p = 0.02856).

Conclusions : Most of contact lens users do not realize the complication from the non-standard using, because they do not receive the correct information. Therefore, it is important the related organizations and every ophthalmologist should educate them.

Thai J Ophthalmol 2000 ; January-June 14(1) : 17-26.

Key word : refractive error, contact lens, complication, medical law