Eye Care and Surma Use in Pakistani Neonates

Authors

  • Zahid Anwar
  • Shahid Anwar
  • Mateen Akram
  • Sajad Ahmad
  • Saima Pirzada
  • Andleeb Kanwal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.53350/pjmhs22162374

Keywords:

Neonates, Eye care, Surma

Abstract

Objective: To document the methods of eye care and surma use in neonates.

Study Design: Prospective cross-sectional study

Place and Duration of Study: Fatima Memorial Hospital, Lahore Mayo Hospital Lahore and Sir Ganga Ram Hospital Lahore from 1st July 2020 to 31st December 2020.

Methodology: Two thousand two hundred and thirty seven females (mostly mothers and female attendants) during ward rounds and outpatient clinics. The socio-demographic data, frequency of different eye care practices and Surma use in neonates were recorded.

Results: Most participants aged between 20 to 40 years (70%), were urban (75.5%), and housewives (54%). Only 15% were illiterate, remaining having at least some schooling or more. 90% were married, though 52% (unmarried + married and no kid+ first-time mothers) did not have personal experience of baby care. Medical personnel had guided females and families in 49%. Of the counselling by relatives (15.2%), grandmothers were a common influence. For first eye care after birth, 67% would use clean water, 19.9% did not know, and 5.5% would use unsafe methods like antimicrobial agents or rose water. A majority (65%) of participants intended to use Surma, usually once a day, the commonest reason being beautification of eyes and face.  There was no correlation between eye care method, use of Surma, and socio-demographics.

Conclusion: We should prioritize the educations of our medical personnel as well the whole families and community.

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How to Cite

Anwar, Z. ., Anwar, S. ., Akram, M. ., Ahmad, S. ., Pirzada, S. ., & Kanwal, A. . (2022). Eye Care and Surma Use in Pakistani Neonates. Pakistan Journal of Medical & Health Sciences, 16(02), 374. https://doi.org/10.53350/pjmhs22162374