ObjectiveTo examine the literature and summarize studies that describe the potential ocular hazards that are posed by different systems of light curing units mainly used in the dental clinics, to ensure the safety of the operator, patient and the auxiliary staff in the dental clinic.MethodsThis systematic review was reported and conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. The online databases PubMed and Google Scholar were used for data search. MeSH terms were used for PubMed search. Randomized controlled clinical trials, original studies and in-vitro studies conducted up to 2018 in English language were included in the review. Eight articles were included in the study after application of eligibility criteria, all of which were in accordance to the review protocol.ResultsThe total wavelength dose received can cause Ocular damage which suggest that light intensity is correlated to the duration required to cause a certain level of damage, and we can substitute the long light exposure by using of a lower intensity light.ConclusionThis review concludes that blue light poses maximum risk to cause retinal degeneration based on the evaluated studies. Most of the studies recommend the use of protective eyewear in order to limit exposure of the patient, operator and assistant to the LCUs. It is not advisable to stare directly into the light source and the recommended safe exposure times and distances for patient, operator and assistant must be strictly adhered to in the dental practice.

Background: Diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication of DM, it occurs due to poor control of DM and lack of knowledge on the complications of DM. Among many approaches, strong awareness of retinopathy by diabetic patients could help in the early detection, management and prevention of this complication. Aim: this study was conducted to assess the awareness of diabetic retinopathy among diabetics in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A hospital-based, cross sectional study was conducted using a pre-tested questionnaire. All diabetic patients seen at the diabetes clinic in King Abdulaziz University Hospital were recruited. Questionnaire was distributed on all participants. The questionnaire contained questions to determine awareness of retinopathy and its risk factors. Data obtained was analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) 16.0. Results: A total of 357 diabetic patients were involved with a mean age of 50 years. 61% of patients were aware of DR. Only 38% were aware that annual retinal examinations are required and 70% were not aware what the treatment for DR is. And only 50% of all the respondents went for eye checkups. Conclusion: Although a large proportion of diabetics in Saudi Arabia are aware that diabetes can affect their eyes, there is however little or no knowledge of its risk factors and prevention. There is therefore a need for increasing this awareness in order to decrease the number of cases of blindness resulting from DR in Saudi Arabia.

PURPOSE:To assess the perceptions about ophthalmology as a career among undergraduate medical students and to investigate the determinants of career choice in ophthalmology.METHODS:A questionnaire was administered to all medical students (from 4th year to interns) in King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. A total of 519 students were included in the study. Students who aspire for ophthalmology as a career, i.e., those who mentioned it in their top three choices (Group A), were compared to those who did not (Group B) regarding demographic and academic factors, factors generally influencing career choice and perception about and experience in ophthalmology.RESULTS:Among 519 included students, ophthalmology was the first career choice of 5.6% and in the top three choices of 13.5% of students. Students from Group A had female preponderance and comparable academic skills, by reference to Group B. Group A reported to have a better experience in ophthalmology, including conference attendance, research activity, and community services related to ophthalmology, as well as greater advantage from ophthalmology rotation. Determinants of career choice in ophthalmology included giving importance for workload during their residency (odds ratio [OR] = 3.38; P = 0.021), having concern about challenging instrumental features (OR = 0.29, P = 0.012), believing that ophthalmology should be included in primary care (OR = 13.60, P = 0.002), and having participated in community service activity in ophthalmology (OR = 10.10, P = 0.005).CONCLUSION:Students who aspire for a career in ophthalmology showed to have an early involvement in related academic activities and less concern about instrumental and intellectual challenges, as compared to their counterparts. The formal ophthalmology rotation is the key step to recruit future ophthalmologists by correcting misconceptions and enhancing interest about the specialty.