Evaluation of primary care physicians’ knowledge, attitudes, and awareness levels regarding age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in individuals over the age of 50. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge and awareness of primary care physicians in Türkiye regarding AMD and to examine the impact of professional characteristics on this awareness. This is a cross-sectional and descriptive study conducted online between August 2025 and September 2025. The participants included general practitioners, family medicine residents, and family medicine specialists working across Türkiye, who were divided into three groups. Data were collected through a Google Forms questionnaire consisting of demographic characteristics and 35 closed-ended questions about AMD. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. A total of 440 participants were included in the study, of whom 70.5% were male and 29.5% female, with a mean age of 38.8 ± 7.9 (26–68). Of the participants, 47% were general practitioners, 39.2% residents, and 13.8% specialists. While 86.0% of physicians knew the definition of AMD, deficiencies were identified regarding classification, risk factors, and access to treatment. Significant differences were observed among professional title groups in the following statements: “AMD is known as yellow spot disease among the public” (p = 0.016), “At what age range does AMD begin” (p = 0.013), “AMD is associated with iris color” (p < 0.001), “Invasive methods are used in the diagnosis of AMD” (p = 0.038), and “Anti-VEGF injections are covered by social security” (p = 0.003). Increased experience was associated with more accurate responses to “AMD is a progressive disease” (aOR = 1.14; p = 0.025). Gender had no significant effect (p > 0.05 for all items). Primary care physicians demonstrated a basic level of awareness, corresponding to the middle tertile of the scoring system. However, important knowledge gaps remain, particularly regarding risk factors and treatment processes. Expanding in-service training and integrating updated clinical guidelines into primary care are recommended for earlier diagnosis and appropriate referral.