Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice on Corneal Donation and Transplantation Among the Allied Ophthalmic Personnel in Community Eye Centers in Nepal

Purpose: Corneal blindness is a significant cause of vision impairment in Nepal, with corneal scarring emerging as a major contributor despite advances in eye care infrastructure. In Nepal, primary eye care services are mostly provided by allied ophthalmic personnel. This study aims to assess the awareness, attitudes, and practices regarding corneal donation and transplantation among allied ophthalmic personnel in community eye centers under the Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology. Methods: A questionnaire-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among 44 allied ophthalmic personnel from 19 community eye centers. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. Results: Most respondents (77.3%) understood corneal donation as posthumous, and 97.7% were aware of its benefits for patients with corneal blindness. Regarding age of donors, 56.8% believed all age groups could donate, and 31.8% set an age limit (1–75 years). Although 81.8% pledged to donate their eyes, 66.7% of those unwilling cited religious beliefs. Approximately 72.7% reported they had experience counseling patients regarding corneal donation, but 60% of those who had not, cited lack of training as a barrier. Referrals for corneal transplantation were made by 54.4%, mainly because of corneal scarring. Conclusions: The results of this study reveal a solid foundation of knowledge and practices related to eye donation and transplantation in Nepal but also highlights critical gaps in knowledge and areas for improvement. Efforts to rectify gaps could benefit both Nepal and the 33 countries reliant on corneas from Nepalese donors.