Knowledge, Attitude and Practice about Retinopathy of Prematurity among Physicians in Primary Healthcare Settings in Baghdad 2025

Abstract

Background: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a preventable cause of childhood blindness, and early screening of at-risk infants is essential for reducing severity. PHC physicians’ knowledge of ROP risk factors and screening guidelines, attitudes toward the importance of early detection, and clinical practices related to referral and parental counseling are important for effective prevention. Objectives: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding ROP among physicians working in PHC centers in Baghdad, and to examine the influence of selected demographic factors on KAP. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among PHC physicians in Al-Karkh and Al-Rusafa sectors in Baghdad from January to December 2025. A multistage sampling method was applied to select sectors and centers; all eligible physicians in selected centers were invited to participate. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire covering demographics and KAP domains. Pearson’s chi-square or Fischer’s exact tests were used to assess associations between demographic variables and KAP levels. Results: 286 physicians participated. Knowledge levels were predominantly fair (43.0%), while only 21.0% demonstrated good knowledge. Attitudes were mainly neutral (72.4%), with only 3.8% showing positive attitudes. Regarding practice, 77.6% demonstrated it was fair and 14.3% good. Academic level and medical specialty were significantly associated with knowledge, while age and specialty were associated with attitudes. Age and participation in educational activities were significantly associated with practice levels. Conclusions: Most physicians exhibited inadequate knowledge and predominantly neutral attitudes toward ROP, and practice levels were generally fair.