ADIGWE ENOCH DAVID

Background: Ophthalmic self-medication, the practice of using drugs without the advice or prescription of a qualified eye care professional. Assessing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of students regarding ophthalmic self-medication is important in understanding their health-seeking behavior and identifying areas that may require educational or public health attention. Purpose: This study aims to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practices of ophthalmic self-medication among students of the University of Benin, Edo State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study will be conducted among undergraduate students of the University of Benin using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire will consist of four sections: socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of ophthalmic self-medication, attitudes towards the practice, and reported self-medication behaviors. Data Analysis: Data collected will be coded and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 25.0 by IBM. Descriptive statistics will be used to summarize the data, while inferential statistics such as Chi-square tests will be employed to determine associations between variables such as gender, faculty, and level of study with knowledge, attitude and practice of self-medication. Contribution to Optometry: The findings from this research will provide valuable insights into the extent and determinants of ophthalmic self-medication among university students. It will help guide public health interventions, enhance eye health education, and support evidence-based advocacy to reduce harmful self-medication practices. Furthermore, the study will contribute to improving the role of optometrists in preventive eye care and health promotion among young adults. Keywords: Ophthalmic self-medication, Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, University of Benin, Public Health, Eye Care