Knowledge of diabetic retinopathy among fifth- and sixth-year medical students at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Khartoum, Sudan: a cross-sectional study 2022

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a leading cause of preventable blindness worldwide. As future frontline healthcare providers, medical students must be equipped with the knowledge necessary for early detection and timely referral. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge regarding the symptoms, risk factors, and management of DR among final- and semifinal-year medical students at the University of Khartoum, Sudan. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between February and March 2022 among 166 fifth- and sixth-year medical students. Participants were recruited via systematic random sampling. Data were collected via an adapted questionnaire, which was reviewed for face and content validity and subsequently pilot-tested. Total knowledge scores were categorized as poor (1–9), moderate (10–19), or good (20–27). The data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Independent-samples t-tests and multivariable linear regression were performed to identify predictors of knowledge levels. The mean knowledge score was 18.11 ± 3.65, indicating a moderate level of overall knowledge. While the majority (79.5%) identified the duration of diabetes as a primary risk factor and emphasized glycemic control (94.6%), significant gaps remained. Only 63.3% recognized DR as a vascular disease, and only 37.3% correctly identified the recommended timing for initial comprehensive ophthalmic examinations. Furthermore, 56% were aware of laser photocoagulation as a treatment modality. Multivariable analysis revealed that reliance on medical college education ( p = 0.015) and having a first-degree relative with diabetes ( p = 0.031) were significant independent predictors of higher knowledge scores. Medical students demonstrated moderate knowledge of diabetic retinopathy with notable gaps in screening and treatment. Medical college education was associated with higher knowledge scores; however, causal relationships cannot be inferred. Strengthening undergraduate medical curricula may enhance their readiness to manage diabetic eye complications. Further multicenter studies are recommended to explore these knowledge gaps across Sudan.