Knowledge and practice of contact lens wear and care among medical students of University of Malaya

The knowledge related to contact lens wear and practice care of contact lenses among medical students of University of Malaya was assessed through a structured questionnaire. One hundred and twenty-one contact lens wearers participated in this study. Majority of contact lens wearers were females (106, 87.6%); the duration of contact lens wear varied from less than six months to two years or more; 53 (43.8%) cited cosmetic purpose for wearing contact lens; 16 (13.2%) were not removing their contact lenses prior to sleeping at night. Despite 107 (88.4%) were aware of complications of contact lens usage, only 102 (84.3%) were adhering strictly to proper hygiene and contact lens care; and 17 (14%) continued wearing in spite of eye symptoms. Forty seven (38.8%) students sought ophthalmic consultation for eye problems. Improper practice of contact lens wear and care even in educated users such as medical students could increase the risk of complications. Therefore, a need for more education to the consumers is desired.