P 301
Eye protection for squash players
A. H. Dahlmann, N. Noor
Aims: To assess factors which influence the use of protective eyewear for playing squash in ophthalmologists and the general public.
Methods: Questionnaire survey of squash players in Yorkshire, of which
n = 16 ophthalmologists and n = 90 players at 4 public squash centres. Parameters assessed were prevalence of use of adequate eye protection, awareness of risk of injury, and factors influencing decision to wear eye protection. Statistical analysis was performed using Chi square test and FisherÂ’s exact procedure.
Results: 99% of squash players do not use adequate protective eyewear, but this is true for only 56% of ophthalmologists, a difference which is statistically significant (p=0.00). Awareness of the risk is significantly associated with use of squash goggles (p=0.00018): 69% of ophthalmologists have seen injuries requiring admission, but only 17% of other players have heard of such injuries (p=0.00005). Technical design of squash goggles is also important: 11% of all players are concerned that goggles could be uncomfortable or restrict their vision. 16% would feel embarrassed to wear squash goggles. If protective eyewear was made mandatory, only 2% would abandon the sport, although only 27% would welcome such legislation. Players felt that public awareness could be raised by posters at squash courts (84%) and optometristsÂ’ practices (30%).
Conclusions: The incidence of squash related eye injuries could be reduced by provision of information about risks of injuries and by increasing availability of adequate eye protection at squash courts.
Birmingham and Midlands Eye Centre, City Hospital NHS Trust, Dudley Road, Birmingham B18 7QH (UK)