Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of vision loss, with increasing prevalence as populations age. Despite advances in early detection and treatment, late-stage AMD remains irreversible, underscoring the need for preventive strategies and equitable access to care. This protocol outlines a qualitative research project co-developed with public contributors, addressing two priorities: promoting preventive actions to delay progression and reducing eye health inequalities through improved community engagement. The study employs a two-component approach led by individuals with lived experience of AMD. First, focus groups stratified by socioeconomic status will explore public understanding of AMD and preventive eye care, identify barriers and enablers to routine eye examination attendance, and examine gaps in health messaging in Lothian, Scotland. Second, iterative workshops will co-develop tailored health messages and engagement strategies with public contributors and stakeholders, translating findings into accessible, community-informed materials. Data will be analysed using reflexive thematic analysis guided by the Andersen Behavioural Model (BMHSU) and the Health Belief Model (HBM), applying a combined deductive–inductive approach to capture both theoretical and emergent themes. Public contributors will participate throughout data collection, analysis, and interpretation to ensure findings remain grounded in lived experience. By examining how individual and contextual factors shape engagement with eye care across socioeconomic groups, this research aims to inform equity-focused strategies for earlier detection and AMD prevention.
Rubio et al. (Mon,) studied this question.