Pattern and Distribution of Ophthalmic Diseases in State Specialist Hospital, Gombe (SSHG): A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Ophthalmic diseases cause significant morbidity globally, but comprehensive data from Gombe State, Northeastern Nigeria, remains limited. Understanding local disease patterns is essential for evidence-based healthcare planning and resource allocation. Objective: To describe the pattern, distribution, and demographic associations of ophthalmic diseases among patients presenting to Specialist Hospital Gombe (SSHG). Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study of 9,200 patients attending the ophthalmology clinic at SSHG. Data on age, sex, primary diagnosis, presenting complaints, and treatment were analyzed using descriptive statistics, frequency distributions, cross-tabulations, and chi-square tests. Results: The mean age was 28.4±20.2 years (median: 25.0). 42.3% were male and 57.7% female (M:F ratio 0.73:1). The five most common diagnoses were: Allergic Conjunctivitis (46.4%), Bacterial Conjunctivitis (11.8%), Refractive Error (9.7%), Cataract (8.3%), and Vernal Conjunctivitis (5.6%). There was a statistically significant association between age group and diagnosis (χ² = 3085.06, df = 168, p = 0.0000e+00). The most common presenting complaints were Itching (27.2%), Discharge (12.6%), and Redness (12.1%). Antibiotic eye drops were the most frequently prescribed treatment (27.7%). Conclusion: Allergic Conjunctivitis is the leading diagnosis at SSHG (46.4%), followed by Bacterial Conjunctivitis and Refractive Error. Disease patterns vary significantly by age, supporting age-targeted interventions. The high rate of antibiotic prescriptions (27.7%) indicates a need for antimicrobial stewardship programs. These findings provide essential baseline data for eye care planning in Gombe State.