Knowledge and practices of eyeglass care among spectacle wearers in a semi-urban Nigerian community

Proper eyeglass care is essential for maintaining lens clarity, preserving frame quality, improving visual comfort and prolonging the lifespan of spectacles. However, many spectacle wearers demonstrate inadequate knowledge and poor maintenance practices, particularly in semi-urban communities where access to eye care education may be limited. This study assessed the knowledge and practices of eyeglass care among spectacle wearers in Mpama community, Egbu, Owerri North, Imo State. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 spectacle wearers aged 18–50 years residing in Mpama community. Participants were selected using stratified random sampling from households, eye clinics, and optical dispensing centres. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and an observation checklist, and were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics were presented as frequencies and percentages, while associations between variables were tested using chi-square at a significance level of p<0.05. More than half (55.6%) of respondents demonstrated poor knowledge of eyeglass care. Similarly, 62.4% of respondents exhibited poor eyeglass care practices. Educational level and occupation were significantly associated with eyeglass care practices (p<0.05), whereas age and sex showed no significant association. Key factors influencing eyeglass care practices included lack of knowledge, cost of cleaning materials, educational status, and professional counseling from eye care practitioners. Knowledge and practices of eyeglass care among spectacle wearers in Mpama community were generally poor. There is a need for intensified patient education, regular counseling by eye care professionals, and community-based eye health promotion programs to improve proper spectacle maintenance and enhance visual comfort among spectacle users.