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McGuinness MB, Moo E, Varga B, Dodson S, Lansingh VC, Resnikoff S, Schmidt E, Ravilla T, Balu Subburaman GB, Khanna RC, Rathi VM, Arunga S, Limburg H, Congdon N. The Better Operative Outcomes Software Tool (BOOST) Prospective Study: Improving the Quality of Cataract Surgery Outcomes in Low-Resource Settings. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2024:1-11. [PMID: 38635874 DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2024.2336518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Post-operative vision impairment is common among patients who have undergone cataract surgery in low-resource settings, impacting quality of clinical outcomes and patient experience. This prospective, multisite, single-armed, pragmatic validation study aimed to assess whether receiving tailored recommendations via the free Better Operative Outcomes Software Tool (BOOST) app improved surgical outcomes, as quantified by post-operative unaided distance visual acuity (UVA) measured 1-3 days after surgery. METHODS During the baseline data collection round, surgeons in low and middle-income countries recorded clinical characteristics of 60 consecutive cataract cases in BOOST. Additional data on the causes of poor outcomes from 20 consecutive cases with post-operative UVA of <6/60 (4-12 weeks post-surgery) were entered to automatically generate tailored recommendations for improvement, before 60 additional consecutive cases were recorded during the follow-up study round. Average UVA was compared between cases recorded in the baseline study round and those recorded during follow-up. RESULTS Among 4,233 cataract surgeries performed by 41 surgeons in 18 countries, only 2,002 (47.3%) had post-operative UVA 6/12 or better. Among the 14 surgeons (34.1%) who completed both rounds of the study (1,680 cases total), there was no clinically significant improvement in post-operative average UVA (logMAR units ±SD) between baseline (0.50 ± 0.37) and follow-up (0.47 ± 0.36) rounds (mean improvement 0.03, p = 0.486). CONCLUSIONS Receiving BOOST-generated recommendations did not result in improved UVA beyond what could be expected from prospective monitoring of surgical outcomes alone. Additional research is required to assess whether targeted support to implement changes could potentiate the uptake of app-generated recommendations and improve outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myra B McGuinness
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Elise Moo
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Global Programs, The Fred Hollows Foundation, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Beatrice Varga
- Global Programs, The Fred Hollows Foundation, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sarity Dodson
- Global Programs, The Fred Hollows Foundation, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Van Charles Lansingh
- Help Me See, Jersey City, New Jersey, USA
- Instituto Mexicano de Oftalmologia, Queretaro, Mexico
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Serge Resnikoff
- Brien Holden Vision Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Elena Schmidt
- Evidence Research and Innovations, Sightsavers, Chippenham, UK
| | | | | | - Rohit C Khanna
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Allen Foster Community Eye Health Research Centre, Gullapalli Pratibha Rao International Centre for Advancement of Rural Eye care, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Varsha M Rathi
- Allen Foster Community Eye Health Research Centre, Gullapalli Pratibha Rao International Centre for Advancement of Rural Eye care, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Simon Arunga
- Department of Ophthalmology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Hans Limburg
- Health Information Services, Grootebroek, Netherlands
| | - Nathan Congdon
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- Orbis International, New York, New York, USA
- Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Marmamula S, Saha R, Khanna RC. Effective Cataract Surgical Coverage in Four Large Districts in Telangana, India - Results from Rapid Assessment of Visual Impairment Study. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2024:1-7. [PMID: 38569085 DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2024.2336498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To report cataract surgical coverage (CSC) and effective Cataract Surgical Coverage (eCSC) from four districts in Telangana, India. METHODS Individuals aged ≥40 years were recruited from Adilabad, Mahbubnagar, Warangal and Khammam districts using two stage cluster sampling methodology. All participants had detailed eye examinations including visual acuity assessment using a standard Snellen chart at a distance of six meters, anterior segment examination and fundus imaging by trained professionals. CSC and eCSC were calculated for persons using a 6/12 visual acuity cut-off. RESULTS Of 12,150 individuals enumerated from four districts 11,238 (92.5%) were examined. The mean (standard deviation) age of the participants was 54.1 (±11.2) years (range: 40 to 102 years) and 54.6% (n = 6137) were women. Overall, the CSC (%) was 54.2%. It ranged from a highest of 59% in Khammam followed by 57.5% in Adilabad, 51.7% in Warangal, and a least of 49.7% in Mahbubnagar district. Overall, the eCSC (%) was 39.9%. It ranged from a highest of 46.1% in Adilabad followed by 43.2% in Khammam, 36.2% in Warangal district and a least of 35.8% in the Mahbubnagar district. CONCLUSIONS CSC and eCSC varied across the districts. A significant gap between CSC and eCSC is noted suggestive of challenges with quality of services. District-wise planning of cataract surgical services with a focus on quality care is recommended to improve coverage and contribute towards achieving the goal of universal eye health coverage in the Telangana State in India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinivas Marmamula
- Allen Foster Community Eye Health Research Centre, Gullapalli Pratibha Rao International Centre for Advancement of Rural Eye care, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- Brien Holden Institute of Optometry and Vision Science, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- Wellcome Trust/Department of Biotechnology India Alliance, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ranindita Saha
- Allen Foster Community Eye Health Research Centre, Gullapalli Pratibha Rao International Centre for Advancement of Rural Eye care, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- Brien Holden Institute of Optometry and Vision Science, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Rohit C Khanna
- Allen Foster Community Eye Health Research Centre, Gullapalli Pratibha Rao International Centre for Advancement of Rural Eye care, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
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Khachatryan N, Giloyan A, Paduca A, Limburg H, Petrosyan V. Nationwide Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) in Armenia. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2024; 31:62-69. [PMID: 36872562 DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2023.2187068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and main causes of blindness and visual impairment in population aged 50 years and older in Armenia using Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) methodology. METHODS The study team randomly selected 50 clusters (each consisting of 50 people) from all 11 regions of Armenia. Data on participants' demographics, presenting visual acuity, pinhole visual acuity, principal cause of presenting visual acuity, spectacle coverage, uncorrected refractive error (URE), and presbyopia were collected using the RAAB survey form. Four teams of trained eye care professionals completed data collection in 2019. RESULTS Overall, 2,258 people of 50 years and older participated in the study. The age- and gender- adjusted prevalence of bilateral blindness, severe and moderate visual impairment were 1.5% (95% CI: 1.0-2.1), 1.6% (95% CI: 1.0-2.2) and 6.6% (95% CI: 5.5-7.7), respectively.The main causes of blindness were cataract (43.9%) and glaucoma (17.1%). About 54.6% and 35.3% of participants had URE and uncorrected presbyopia, respectively. The prevalence of bilateral blindness and functional low vision increased with age and was the highest in participants 80 years and older. CONCLUSION The rate of bilateral blindness was comparable with findings from countries that share similar background and confirmed that untreated cataract was the main cause of blindness. Given that cataract blindness is avoidable, strategies should be developed aiming to further increase the volume and quality of cataract care in Armenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naira Khachatryan
- Garo Meghrigian Institute for Preventive Ophthalmology, Turpanjian College of Health Sciences, American University of Armenia, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Aida Giloyan
- Garo Meghrigian Institute for Preventive Ophthalmology, Turpanjian College of Health Sciences, American University of Armenia, Yerevan, Armenia
| | - Ala Paduca
- Faculty of Medicine, State University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Nicolae Testemiteanu", Chişinău, Republic of Moldova
| | - Hans Limburg
- Health Information Services, Grootebroek, The Netherlands
| | - Varduhi Petrosyan
- Turpanjian College of Health Sciences, American University of Armenia, Yerevan, Armenia
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Choi HG, Lee MJ, Baek SU. A longitudinal study of the association between visual impairment and income change using a national health screening cohort. Sci Rep 2022; 12:958. [PMID: 35046464 PMCID: PMC8770619 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-05003-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
We evaluated the influence of visual impairment (VI) on income change using the longitudinal database of a Korean National Health Insurance Service cohort. A total of 5292 participants ≥ 40 years old and registered as visually impaired persons were selected at a 1:4 ratio with 45,081 non-VI participants matched for age, sex, and income level. The income level of both the VI and non-VI groups increased over time. In the VI group, the income levels 3, 4 and 5 years were higher than the initial value, while the income levels from 1 through 5 years were increased each year in the non-VI group. The rate of change in income between time and VI were significant. In the subgroup analysis considering age, sex, and severity of VI, the rate of change in income were significant in < 65 years old subgroups. Regarding the severity of VI, a significant interaction was found for the mild-to-moderate VI subgroup. Although both the VI and non-VI groups showed increased income levels over 5 years, the degree of income increase in the VI group was relatively lower than that in the non-VI group. This finding was prominent in the middle-age subgroup. These results strongly suggested that VI induced an income inequality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyo Geun Choi
- Hallym Data Science Laboratory, Hallym University College of Medicine, Anyang, South Korea.,Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Hallym University College of Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang, South Korea
| | - Min Joung Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University College of Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, 22, Gwanpyeong-ro 170beon-gil, Dongan-gu, Anyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, 14068, South Korea.
| | - Sung Uk Baek
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hallym University College of Medicine, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, 22, Gwanpyeong-ro 170beon-gil, Dongan-gu, Anyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, 14068, South Korea.
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Chariwala RA, Shah SP, Patel D, Chaudhari SP, Gajiwala UR. Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness and Willingness to Pay for Cataract Surgery in Tribal Region of Surat District of Gujarat State, India. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2020; 28:152-159. [PMID: 32673143 DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2020.1792939] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
AIM To estimate prevalence and causes of avoidable blindness among people ≥50 years and to assess willingness to pay (WTP) for cataract surgery in tribal region of south Gujarat, India. METHODS A cross-sectional population based survey was conducted with 44 randomly selected clusters each having 50 people aged ≥50 years selected by probability proportional to size of sampling. Adults identified with cataract causing visual loss (<6/18) in any eye were interviewed to assess their WTP for surgery. RESULTS Total of 2137 examined out of 2200 people enumerated (response rate 97.1%). The prevalence of blindness (Presenting Visual Acuity (PVA)<3/60 in better eye) was 2.23% (95% CI: 2.95%-1.51%). Cataract was main cause of blindness (67.3%) followed by corneal scarring (8.2%). Major barrier to cataract surgery cited by bilaterally blind people was lack of escort to the surgical facility (34.3%). Cataract surgical coverage (CSC) was 84.9% (eyes) and 92% (persons). Of the 492 people interviewed to assess WTP for their surgery, only 36.4% people were willing to pay. CONCLUSION The tribal population has a high poverty profile in India. Within this group, cataract remains the main treatable cause of blindness despite a high CSC. Assessment of barriers suggested that a well-coordinated outreach programme with free transport facilities to the surgical facility is required along with strategies to improve accessibility and prioritising cataract blind in the community. One-third of people were willing to pay for their surgeries implying that cross subsidization or tier system could be feasible for eye care programme sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan A Chariwala
- Department of Public Health and Research in Eye Care, Tejas Eye Hospital, Divyajyoti Trust, Mandvi, Gujarat, India
| | - Shaheen P Shah
- Department of Ophthalmology, Queensland Children's Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Daksha Patel
- International Center for Eye Health (ICEH), London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), London, UK
| | - Sheetal P Chaudhari
- Department of Public Health and Research in Eye Care, Tejas Eye Hospital, Divyajyoti Trust, Mandvi, Gujarat, India
| | - Uday R Gajiwala
- Department of Public Health and Research in Eye Care, Tejas Eye Hospital, Divyajyoti Trust, Mandvi, Gujarat, India
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Schuster AK, Nickels S, Pfeiffer N, Schmidtmann I, Wild PS, Münzel T, Beutel ME, Lackner KJ, Vossmerbaeumer U. Frequency of cataract surgery and its impact on visual function-results from the German Gutenberg Health Study. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2020; 258:2223-2231. [PMID: 32514772 PMCID: PMC7550321 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-020-04770-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the frequency of cataract surgery in Germany and to evaluate its impact on visual function in an adult population. Methods The population-based Gutenberg Health Study was conducted in Germany with its baseline examination between 2007 and 2012 and a 5-year follow-up examiantion. An ophthalmological examination including slit-lamp examination, ocular biometry, and Scheimpflug imaging was carried out. Overall and age-specific frequencies of unilateral and bilateral cataract surgery within 5 years were computed including the 95% confidential intervals [95%-CI]. Association analyses were conducted to determine social and ocular associated factors using multivariable logistic regression analysis. Vision-related quality of life was assessed using NEI VFQ-25. Results A total of 10,544 people aged 35 to 74 years were bilateral phakic at baseline and had information on lens status at the 5-year examination. Of these, 168 had unilateral cataract surgery (1.6% [1.4–1.9%]), and 448 had bilateral cataract surgery (4.2% [3.9–4.7%]) in the following 5 years. The frequency of cataract surgery increased with age: 45–54-year-old subjects had twice as often cataract surgery (in at least on eye: OR = 2.32) than at age 35–44 years. The frequency further strongly increases with age (55–64 years: OR = 10.5; 65–74 years: OR = 43.8, p < 0.001). Subjects with glaucoma were more likely to have cataract surgery (OR = 2.52, p < 0.001). Visual function increased when undergoing bilateral cataract surgery. Conclusions The frequency of cataract surgery is low at younger ages and increases up to 26% at age 70–74 years. Persons with glaucoma are more likely to undergo cataract surgery at population-based level in Germany. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00417-020-04770-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander K Schuster
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, Mainz, 55131, Germany.
| | - S Nickels
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, Mainz, 55131, Germany
| | - N Pfeiffer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, Mainz, 55131, Germany
| | - I Schmidtmann
- Institute of Biomedical Statistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - P S Wild
- Preventive Cardiology and Preventive Medicine, Center for Cardiology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Center for Thrombosis and Hemostasis, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- DZHK (German Center for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Rhine-Main, Mainz, Germany
| | - T Münzel
- Center for Cardiology, Cardiology I, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - M E Beutel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - K J Lackner
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - U Vossmerbaeumer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Langenbeckstr. 1, Mainz, 55131, Germany
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Shen W, Cun Q, Zhong H, Pan CW, Li J, Chen Q. Ethnic variation in prevalence, self-reported barriers and outcome of cataract surgery in a rural population in southwestern China: the Yunnan minority eye study. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:893. [PMID: 32517668 PMCID: PMC7285510 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09009-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a part of the Yunnan Minority Eye Studies, the purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence, barriers and visual acuity outcomes of cataract surgery in a multiethnic adult population in rural areas of southwestern China. METHODS A population-based cross-sectional survey was conducted with participants of Bai, Yi, and Han ethnicity aged ≥50 years in Yunnan. A detailed eye examination was performed. Information on the date, setting, type, and complications of cataract surgery were recorded in the examination of cataract-operated eyes. RESULTS Of 6546 subjects (2133 Bai ethnicity, 2208 Yi ethnicity and 2205 Han ethnicity), the prevalence of cataract surgery was 6.0%, with 4.6% in Bai, 7.0% in Yi, and 6.4% in Han ethnicity. Cataract Surgical coverage (CSC) among those with presenting visual acuity (PVA) < 20/200 in both eyes because of cataract was 53.3%, with 52.8% in Bai, 64.4% in Yi, and 45.3% in Han ethnicity. CSC was associated with Yi ethnicity, younger age, and higher education level, while unoperated cataract was associated with Han ethnicity, older age, and illiterate. The main barrier to cataract surgery was lack of awareness and knowledge, cost, and fear. Among the 525 cataract-operated eyes, PVA and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 20/63 or better was 44.5 and 67.2%, respectively, with 48.1 and 65.9% in Bai, 47.8 and 75.4% in Yi, 39.1 and 59.9% in Han ethnicity. Han ethnicity, aphakia, earlier year of surgery, lower-level surgical hospital and illiterate were associated with postoperative visual impairment defined by PVA, while Han ethnicity, aphakia, and illiterate were associated with that defined by BCVA. The principal causes of postoperative visual impairment were retinal disorders (26.8%), posterior capsule opacification (25.1%), refractive error(22.7%), and glaucoma (9.3%). CONCLUSIONS Han ethnicity had a lower CSC and relatively poor visual outcomes compared with ethnic minorities. Further effective effort to remove barriers and provide sight restoration is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (the Second People's Hospital of Yunnan Province), Yunnan Eye Institute, Key Laboratory of Yunnan Province for the Prevention and Treatment of Ophthalmology, Kunming, 650032, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Cun
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Hua Zhong
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Chen-Wei Pan
- School of Public Health, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Jun Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, the Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University (the Second People's Hospital of Yunnan Province), Yunnan Eye Institute, Key Laboratory of Yunnan Province for the Prevention and Treatment of Ophthalmology, Kunming, 650032, People's Republic of China
| | - Qin Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210000, People's Republic of China.
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Rai BB, Morley MG, Bernstein PS, Maddess T. Pattern of vitreo-retinal diseases at the national referral hospital in Bhutan: a retrospective, hospital-based study. BMC Ophthalmol 2020; 20:51. [PMID: 32054472 PMCID: PMC7017569 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-020-01335-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowing the pattern and presentation of the diseases is critical for management strategies. To inform eye-care policy we quantified the pattern of vitreo-retinal (VR) diseases presenting at the national referral hospital in Bhutan. METHODS We reviewed all new patients over three years from the retinal clinic of the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital. Demographic data, presenting complaints and duration, treatment history, associated systemic diseases, diagnostic procedures performed, and final diagnoses were quantified. Comparisons of the expected and observed frequency of gender used Chi-squared tests. We applied a sampling with replacement based bootstrap analysis (10,000 cycles) to estimate the population means and the standard errors of the means and standard error of the 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th and 90th percentiles of the ages of the males and females within 20-year cohorts. We then applied t-tests employing the estimated means and standard errors. The 2913 subjects insured that the bootstrap estimates were statistically conservative. RESULTS The 2913 new cases were aged 47.2 ± 21.8 years. 1544 (53.0%) were males. Housewives (953, 32.7%) and farmers (648, 22.2%) were the commonest occupations. Poor vision (41.9%), screening for diabetic and hypertensive retinopathy (13.1%), referral (9.7%), sudden vision loss (9.3%), and trauma (8.0%) were the commonest presenting symptoms. Coexistent diabetes and hypertension were the most common associated systemic diseases. Haematological tests (blood sugar, HbA1c and lipid profile, 31.8%), OCT (27.4%), refraction (9.9%), B-scan (8.7%), fundus photography (8.0%) were the most commonly performed diagnostic tests. Hypertensive retinopathy (18.9%) was the commonest VR disease, followed by refractive errors referred for retinal evaluation (16.7%), diabetic retinopathy with macular oedema (15.8%), and AMD (11.0%). Retinal detachment was more prevalent in females (83 vs. 41, p = 0.007). Rare vision-threatening diseases like seasonal hyper-acute pan-uveitis also presented. CONCLUSIONS The developing VR service in Bhutan is challenged by the spectrum of diseases, limited human resources (e.g. one retinal surgeon during the study), and accessibility to tertiary eye-care services, all amidst difficult terrain. Sustained effort and robust coordination among the eye-care professionals, government and non-governmental organisations are critical for optimising VR services, especially as rates of diseases such as diabetes and hypertension grow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhim B Rai
- John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia. .,Department of Ophthalmology, JDW National Referral Hospital, Thimphu, Bhutan.
| | - Michael G Morley
- Ophthalmic Consultants of Boston, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Ted Maddess
- John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
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Female Gender Remains a Significant Barrier to Access Cataract Surgery in South Asia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Ophthalmol 2020; 2020:2091462. [PMID: 32411426 PMCID: PMC7201788 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2091462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 11/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine whether the female gender is a barrier for the access to cataract surgery services in South Asia in the last two decades. Methods Eligible cross-sectional studies were identified via computer searches and reviewing the reference lists of the obtained articles. The cataract surgical coverage (CSC) by sex based on person and eyes at visual acuity <3/60 and 6/18 is extracted. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) for males receiving cataract surgery in comparison with females were calculated by a random effect model. Results Sixteen studies with 135972 subjects were included in the final analysis. The pooled ORs of CSC by sex on a person basis at visual acuity <3/60 and at visual acuity <6/18 were 1.46 (95% CI: 1.23-1.75) and 1.14 (95% CI: 1.05-1.24), respectively. For CSC on a per-eye basis at visual acuity <3/60, the associations were statistically significant, with a pooled OR of 1.40 (95% CI: 1.16-1.70). The values of population attributable risk percentage at a per-person and per-eye basis at visual acuity <3/60 were 6.28% and 7.48%, respectively. Subgroup analyses by design and location types attained similar results as the primary analyses. There was no evidence of publication bias. Conclusions The female gender remains a significant barrier for the access to cataract surgery in South Asia. Visual impairment, including blindness, from unoperated cataract, could be reduced by approximately 6.28% with the elimination of gender disparities to access. More efforts are needed to increase eye care service utilization by female population.
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Rai BB, Shresthra MK, Thapa R, Essex RW, Paudyal G, Maddess T. Pattern and Presentation of Vitreo-Retinal Diseases: An Analysis of Retrospective Data at a Tertiary Eye Care Center in Nepal. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2019; 8:481-488. [PMID: 31789651 PMCID: PMC6903420 DOI: 10.1097/01.apo.0000604400.50700.2d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We examined patients presenting in a tertiary eye hospital in Nepal, focusing on information relevant to screening and management programs for vitreo-retinal (VR) disease. DESIGN Retrospective, cross-sectional study. METHODS We reviewed all patients presenting for the first time to the VR-clinic over 1 year. We quantified patient demography, symptoms and duration, systemic diseases, ophthalmological examinations, diagnostic investigations, and final diagnoses. RESULTS Of the 1905 cases, 1148 were male (60.3%). The 25th percentile of ages was 29 and 38 years for male and female, respectively; thus, female presented later (P < 0.0001). Hypertension was the commonest systemic disease (40.8%), followed by diabetes (32.5%). Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) affected 447 eyes (11.8%) and 416 eyes (10.9%), respectively. Male and female AMD and DR patients did not differ in age or disease duration. Similarly, age or disease duration for DR did not correlate with severity. Asymmetry of disease severity between eyes with AMD and DR was largest in patients with 1 normal eye. Presenting acuity was asymmetric between eyes (P < 0.0001) with people more often reporting once their right eyes had acuity of 6/18 or worse. CONCLUSIONS The screening of blood pressure and glucose levels combined with fundus photography could prevent many from progressing to life-changing visual impairment and blindness. Later reporting by females began at childbearing age; therefore, education and ocular screening could be usefully coupled in reproductive health programs. Clubbing VR disease screening with other established health programs like diabetes control program, hypertension clinics, school health program, and so on, would provide economical and sustainable approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhim B. Rai
- John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, ACT, Australia
| | | | - Raba Thapa
- Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Rohan W. Essex
- ANU Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, ANU Medical School; Department of Ophthalmology, Canberra Hospital, ACT Health, Australia
| | | | - Ted Maddess
- John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, ACT, Australia
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Visual Acuity at 6 Weeks after Small Incision Cataract Surgery and Role of Audit in Predicting Visual Acuity. Eur J Ophthalmol 2018; 20:345-52. [DOI: 10.1177/112067211002000214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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12
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13
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Das T, Ackland P, Correia M, Hanutsaha P, Mahipala P, Nukella PB, Pokharel GP, Raihan A, Rao GN, Ravilla TD, Sapkota YD, Simanjuntak G, Tenzin N, Thoufeeq U, Win T. Is the 2015 eye care service delivery profile in Southeast Asia closer to universal eye health need! Int Ophthalmol 2017; 38:469-480. [DOI: 10.1007/s10792-017-0481-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 02/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Marmamula S, Khanna RC, Shekhar K, Rao GN. Outcomes of Cataract Surgery in Urban and Rural Population in the South Indian State of Andhra Pradesh: Rapid Assessment of Visual Impairment (RAVI) Project. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0167708. [PMID: 27918589 PMCID: PMC5137898 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0167708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the visual outcomes after cataract surgery among urban and rural population aged ≥40 years in the South India state of Andhra Pradesh. METHODS A population based cross-sectional study was conducted in which 7800 subjects were sampled from two rural and one urban location. Visual Acuity was assessed and eye examination were performed by trained personnel. A questionnaire was used to collect personal and demographic information, and history of cataract surgery. Blindness and moderate Visual Impairment (MVI) was defined as presenting VA <6/60 and <6/18 to 6/60 in the better eye respectively. RESULTS In total, 7378 (94.6%) were examined. Of these, 1228 eyes of 870 individuals were operated for cataract. The mean age of operated subjects was 63.7 years (SD: 10.7 years). Overall, 56.3% of those operated were women, 76% were illiterate and 42% of them were using spectacles after cataract surgery. Even after surgery, 12.2% of the operated eyes had MVI and blindness was seen in 14.7% of the eyes. A significantly higher proportion of subjects in urban area had good outcome as compared to those in the rural area (p = 0.01). Uncorrected refractive error (58.7%) was the leading cause of MVI, and posterior segment disease (34.3%) was the leading cause of blindness. On applying multiple logistic regression, risk factors for poor outcomes were age ≥ 70 years (OR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.3-2.8), rural residence (OR: 1.3, 95% CI:1.0-1.8) and presence of aphakia (OR: 8.9, 95% CI: 5.7-13.8). CONCLUSIONS Post cataract surgery, refractive errors remain an important correctable cause of MVI, in the south Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. The correction of refractive errors is required to provide good visual recovery and achieve the benefit of cataract surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinivas Marmamula
- Allen Foster Community Eye Health Research Centre, Gullapalli Pratibha Rao International Centre for Advancement of Rural Eye care, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- Brien Holden Institute of Optometry and Vision Science, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- Wellcome Trust / Department of Biotechnology India Alliance Research Fellow, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Rohit C. Khanna
- Allen Foster Community Eye Health Research Centre, Gullapalli Pratibha Rao International Centre for Advancement of Rural Eye care, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- Brien Holden Institute of Optometry and Vision Science, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- * E-mail:
| | - Konegari Shekhar
- Allen Foster Community Eye Health Research Centre, Gullapalli Pratibha Rao International Centre for Advancement of Rural Eye care, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Gullapalli N. Rao
- Allen Foster Community Eye Health Research Centre, Gullapalli Pratibha Rao International Centre for Advancement of Rural Eye care, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- Brien Holden Institute of Optometry and Vision Science, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
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Muhit M, Wadud Z, Islam J, Khair Z, Shamanna BR, Jung J, Khandaker G. Generating Evidence for Program Planning: Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness in Bangladesh. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2016; 23:176-84. [DOI: 10.3109/09286586.2016.1155716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Muhit
- Child Sight Foundation (CSF), Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Faculty of Public Health and Life Sciences, University of South Asia, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Zakia Wadud
- Child Sight Foundation (CSF), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | | | - BR Shamanna
- School of Medical Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, India
| | - Jenny Jung
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Gulam Khandaker
- Discipline of Paediatrics and Child Health, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance of Vaccine Preventable Diseases, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Mundy KM, Nichols E, Lindsey J. Socioeconomic Disparities in Cataract Prevalence, Characteristics, and Management. Semin Ophthalmol 2016; 31:358-63. [PMID: 27100947 DOI: 10.3109/08820538.2016.1154178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To review the current literature on socioeconomic disparities relationship with cataract prevalence, characteristics, and management. SUMMARY Cataracts are an important cause of preventable visual impairment in both the developing and industrialized world. Cataract surgery is a highly effective operation with an excellent risk profile. Furthermore, cataract surgery has been shown to have significant positive functional, social, and economic implications for patients. Several medical conditions have been shown to have correlation with socioeconomic factors and cataract is among several forms of visual impairment that demonstrate this relationship. Disparities in prevalence, clinical characteristics, and management are documented in the ophthalmic literature. A better understanding of these socioeconomic factors and their clinical relevance is critical to alleviating the burden of cataract-related visual impairment in an aging population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Mundy
- a Vanderbilt University Medical Center , Vanderbilt University, Nashville , TN , USA
| | - Erin Nichols
- a Vanderbilt University Medical Center , Vanderbilt University, Nashville , TN , USA
| | - Jennifer Lindsey
- a Vanderbilt University Medical Center , Vanderbilt University, Nashville , TN , USA
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The Correlation of Age and Postoperative Visual Acuity for Age-Related Cataract. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:7147543. [PMID: 26881225 PMCID: PMC4736385 DOI: 10.1155/2016/7147543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Revised: 11/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Purpose. Clinically, what is the best time for age-related cataract (ARC) patients to receive surgeries and get the most benefits is important. We explored the relationship between age and presenting postoperative visual acuity (POVA) in patients from rural China. Methods. Three Lifeline Express Hospital Eye-Train missions of Peking University People's Hospital were chosen. At the first day after surgery, 3452 ARC eyes with the presenting POVA ≥ 6/60 were enrolled. The relationship between age and POVA was analyzed statistically. Results. In these three missions, there were more female patients than males; the ratio of females to males was 1.71. The average age of females was older than males. Overall, the percentages of patients with good visual outcomes (≥6/18) were significantly decreased with aging. Different regions had variations, but the trends were the same. There was weak linear correlation between age and POVA. The correlations of females were stronger than males in Yuncheng and Sanmenxia and weaker than males in Zhoukou. Conclusion. The good visual outcomes of presenting POVA were significantly decreased with aging and there were weak linear correlations between age and POVA in rural China. The linear correlation might be influenced by the difference of gender and region.
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Khanna R, Murthy GVS. Inequities in cataract surgical coverage in South Asia. COMMUNITY EYE HEALTH 2016; 29:S06-S09. [PMID: 28289327 PMCID: PMC5340111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rohit Khanna
- Director, Gullapeli Pratibha Rao Internations Centre for Advancement of Rural Eye Care (GPRI CARE), Hyderabad
| | - GVS Murthy
- Vice-President, South, Public Health Foundation of India & Director, Indian Institute of Public Health
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Patil S, Gogate P, Vora S, Ainapure S, Hingane RN, Kulkarni AN, Shammanna BR. Prevalence, causes of blindness, visual impairment and cataract surgical services in Sindhudurg district on the western coastal strip of India. Indian J Ophthalmol 2015; 62:240-5. [PMID: 24618491 PMCID: PMC4005244 DOI: 10.4103/0301-4738.128633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Konkan coast of India is geographically distinct and its pattern of blindness has never been mapped. Aim: To study the prevalence and causes of blindness and cataract surgical services in Sindhudurg district of West Coast. Subjects: Individual aged > 50 years. Materials and Methods: Rapid assessment of avoidable blindness used to map blindness pattern in the district. Statistical analysis: SPSS version 19. Results: Amongst those examined 1415 (51.7%) had visual acuity (VA) >20/60, 924 (33.8%, confidence interval (C.I) 30.5%-36.8%) had VA 20/200-<20/60(visual impairment), 266 (9.7%, C.I. 6.1%-13.3%) had VA < 20/200-20/400 (severe visual impairment) and 132 (4.8%, C. I. 1.1%-8.5%) had VA < 20/400 (blindness by WHO standards). There was no significant gender difference in prevalence of blindness, but blindness and visual impairment was more in older and rural residing individuals. Amongst those with presenting vision < 20/200 in better eye, 309 (82.4%) had cataract, 36 (9.7%) had corneal scars, 13 (3.5%) had diabetic retinopathyand 3 (0.8%) had glaucoma. Cataract surgical coverage for the district was only 30.5%; 32% for males and 28.4% for females. Unable to afford, lack of knowledge and lack of access to services were the commonest barriers responsible for cataract patients not seeking care. Amongst those who had undergone cataract surgery, only 50% had visual acuity ≥ 20/60.46.9% of the population had spectacles for near, but only 53.3% of the population had presenting near vision < N10. Conclusion: Cataract, refractive errors and diabetes were significant causes of visual impairment and blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Parikshit Gogate
- Lions NAB Eye Hospital, Miraj; Dr. Gogate's Eye Clinic, Pune, Maharashtra, India
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Ahmad K, Zwi AB, Tarantola DJM, Azam SI. Eye Care Service Use and Its Determinants in Marginalized Communities in Pakistan: The Karachi Marine Fishing Communities Eye and General Health Survey. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2015; 22:370-9. [PMID: 25835643 DOI: 10.3109/09286586.2015.1012592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine gender, ethnic, and socioeconomic differences in access to eye care services in marine fishing communities in Karachi, Pakistan. METHODS The Karachi Marine Fishing Communities Eye and General Health Survey was a door-to-door, cross-sectional survey conducted between March 2009 and April 2010 in fishing communities in Keamari, Karachi, located on the coast of the Arabian Sea. Adults aged ≥50 years living on three islands and in four coastal areas were enrolled. Participants underwent a detailed interview regarding sociodemographics, eye problems and eye care service use, testing of presenting and best-corrected visual acuity with a reduced logMAR chart, and detailed eye examination. RESULTS A total of 700 people were planned to be included in the study; 638 (91.1%) were interviewed and examined. Most participants were extremely poor and had no formal education. Only 45.3% (95% confidence interval, CI, 41.4-49.2%) of participants reported having had an eye examination in the past; 12.1% (95% CI 9.5-14.6%) and 30.9% (95% CI 27.3-34.5%) had seen an eye doctor within the last year or prior 5 years, respectively. In the multivariable analysis, ethnicity was the strongest independent predictor of eye care service use, followed by self-reported eye problems and diabetes. Ethnic Bengalis were 4.2 times less likely (adjusted odds ratio 0.24, 95% CI 0.15-0.38; p < 0.001) to have had an eye examination in the past than Kutchis. CONCLUSIONS Despite a high prevalence of visual impairment and blindness, levels of eye care examinations in fishing communities, especially among ethnic Bengalis, are disappointingly low. Such communities deserve particular attention in Vision 2020 and other national and international strategies and plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khabir Ahmad
- a School of Social Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, The University of New South Wales , Sydney , New South Wales , Australia .,b Section of Ophthalmology and Office of Surgical Research, Department of Surgery, Aga Khan University , Karachi , Pakistan
| | - Anthony B Zwi
- a School of Social Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, The University of New South Wales , Sydney , New South Wales , Australia
| | - Daniel J M Tarantola
- c School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The University of New South Wales , Sydney , New South Wales , Australia , and
| | - Syed Iqbal Azam
- d Department of Community Health Sciences , Aga Khan University , Karachi , Pakistan
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21
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Singh N, Eeda SS, Gudapati BK, Reddy S, Kanade P, Shantha GPS, Rani PK, Chakrabarti S, Khanna RC. Prevalence and causes of blindness and visual impairment and their associated risk factors, in three tribal areas of Andhra Pradesh, India. PLoS One 2014; 9:e100644. [PMID: 25007075 PMCID: PMC4090120 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 05/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To assess the prevalence of blindness and visual impairment (VI), their associated causes and underlying risk factors in three tribal areas of Andhra Pradesh, India and compare this data in conjunction with data from other countries with low and middle income settings. Methods Using a validated Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness methodology, a two stage sampling survey was performed in these areas involving probability proportionate to size sampling and compact segment sampling methods. Blindness, VI and severe visual impairment (SVI) were defined as per the WHO guidelines and Indian definitions. Results Based on a prior enumeration, 7281 (97.1%) subjects were enrolled (mean age = 61.0+/−7.9 years). Based on the presenting visual acuity (PVA), the prevalences of VI, SVI and blindness were 16.9% (95% CI: 15.7–18.1), 2.9% (95% CI: 2.5–3.4), and 2.3% (95% CI: 1.9–2.7), respectively. When based on the Pinhole corrected visual acuity (PCVA), the prevalences were lower in VI (6.2%, 95% CI: 5.4–6.9), SVI (1.5%, 95% CI: 1.2–1.9) and blindness (2.1%, 95% CI: 1.7–2.5). Refractive error was the major cause of VI (71.4%), whereas, cataract was the major cause of SVI and blindness (70.3%). Based on the PVA, the odds ratio (OR) of blindness increased in the age groups of 60–69 years (OR = 3.8, 95% CI: 2.8, 5.1), 70–79 years (OR = 10.6, 95% CI: 7.2, 15.5) and 80 years and above (OR = 30.7, 95% CI: 19.2, 49). The ORs were relatively higher in females (OR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.0, 1.6) and illiterate subjects (OR = 4.3, 95% CI: 2.2, 8.5), but lower in those wearing glasses (OR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.1, 0.4). Conclusions This is perhaps the first study to assess the prevalence of blindness and VI in these tribal regions and the majority of the causes of blindness and SVI were avoidable (88.5%). These findings may be useful for planning eye care services in these underserved regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nakul Singh
- Biostatistics, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Shiva Shankar Eeda
- Andhra Pradesh Right to Sight Society, Hyderabad, India
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bala Krishna Gudapati
- Andhra Pradesh Right to Sight Society, Hyderabad, India
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Srinivasa Reddy
- Andhra Pradesh Right to Sight Society, Hyderabad, India
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Pushkar Kanade
- Internal Medicine, St. Vincent Charity Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Ghanshyam Palamaner Subash Shantha
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Department of Internal Medicine, Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Padmaja Kumari Rani
- Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, India
- Allen Foster Research Centre for Community Eye Health, GPR International Centre for Advancement of Rural Eye care, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
| | - Subhabrata Chakrabarti
- Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, India
| | - Rohit C Khanna
- Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, India
- Allen Foster Research Centre for Community Eye Health, GPR International Centre for Advancement of Rural Eye care, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India
- * E-mail:
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To KG, Meuleners L, Bulsara M, Fraser ML, Duong DV, Do DV, Huynh VAN, Phi TD, Tran HH, Nguyen ND. A longitudinal cohort study of the impact of first- and both-eye cataract surgery on falls and other injuries in Vietnam. Clin Interv Aging 2014; 9:743-51. [PMID: 24812501 PMCID: PMC4011894 DOI: 10.2147/cia.s61224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim Little information exists on the impact of cataract surgery on falls and other injuries in Vietnam. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of first and both eye cataract surgery on the number of falls and other injuries among bilateral cataract patients in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Materials and methods A longitudinal cohort study was conducted involving 413 bilateral cataract patients aged 50+ years. Participants were assessed at three time points: 1 week before, 1–3 months after, and 1 year after first-eye cataract surgery. Visual measures (visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and stereopsis) were taken, and self-reported falls and injury data were collected. A multilevel longitudinal Poisson regression model was used to investigate change in the number of falls after surgery. Results The risk of falls decreased by 78% (incidence-rate ratio [IRR] 0.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.06–0.77; P=0.018) in the year after cataract surgery for participants who had first-eye surgery only and 83% (IRR 0.17, 95% CI 0.04–0.69; P=0.012) for participants who had the second eye operated on compared to before surgery. The risk of falls was three times higher for females than males (IRR 3.13, 95% CI 1.53–6.40; P=0.002). Improved binocular contrast sensitivity was also associated with a decrease in falls (IRR 0.40, 95% CI 0.17–0.97; P=0.042). The prevalence of other injuries also decreased after cataract surgery. Conclusion Cataract surgery reduced the number of falls and other injuries in Vietnam. Contrast sensitivity may be important for ophthalmologists to consider when prioritizing patients for surgery and assessing their fall risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kien Gia To
- Curtin Monash Accident Research Centre (C-MARC), Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia ; University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Lynn Meuleners
- Curtin Monash Accident Research Centre (C-MARC), Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Max Bulsara
- Institute for Health Research, University of Notre Dame, Fremantle, WA, Australia
| | - Michelle L Fraser
- Curtin Monash Accident Research Centre (C-MARC), Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | | | - Dung Van Do
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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Danquah L, Kuper H, Eusebio C, Rashid MA, Bowen L, Foster A, Polack S. The long term impact of cataract surgery on quality of life, activities and poverty: results from a six year longitudinal study in Bangladesh and the Philippines. PLoS One 2014; 9:e94140. [PMID: 24747192 PMCID: PMC3991652 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0094140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2013] [Accepted: 03/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cataract surgery has been shown to improve quality of life and household economy in the short term. However, it is unclear whether these benefits are sustained over time. This study aims to assess the six year impact of cataract surgery on health related quality of life (HRQoL), daily activities and economic poverty in Bangladesh and The Philippines. Methods and Findings This was a longitudinal study. At baseline people aged ≥50 years with visual impairment due to cataract (‘cases’) and age-, sex-matched controls without visual impairment were interviewed about vision specific and generic HRQoL, daily activities and economic indicators (household per capita expenditure, assets and self-rated wealth). Cases were offered free or subsidised cataract surgery. Cases and controls were re-interviewed approximately one and six years later. At baseline across the two countries there were 455 cases and 443 controls. Fifty percent of cases attended for surgery. Response rates at six years were 47% for operated cases and 53% for controls. At baseline cases had poorer health and vision related QoL, were less likely to undertake productive activities, more likely to receive assistance with activities and were poorer compared to controls (p<0.05). One year after surgery there were significant increases in HRQoL, participation and time spent in productive activities and per capita expenditure and reduction in assistance with activities so that the operated cases were similar to controls. These increases were still evident after six years with the exception that time spent on productive activities decreased among both cases and controls. Conclusion Cataract causing visual loss is associated with reduced HRQoL and economic poverty among older adults in low-income countries. Cataract surgery improves the HRQoL of the individual and economy of the household. The findings of this study suggest these benefits are sustained in the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Danquah
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah Kuper
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Liza Bowen
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Allen Foster
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Polack
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Katibeh M, Ziaei H, Rajavi Z, Hosseini S, Javadi MA. Profile of cataract surgery in Varamin Iran: a population-based study. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2013; 42:354-9. [PMID: 23927430 DOI: 10.1111/ceo.12185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2013] [Accepted: 07/26/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cataract is the most popular cause of blindness. This study addresses some aspects of cataract surgery in an Iranian population. DESIGN A cross-sectional study. PARTICIPANTS 3000 adults over 50 in Varamin district. METHODS Cataract surgical coverage was defined as the proportion of (pseudo) aphakic eyes of all operable and operated eyes with cataract. If there was obvious lens opacity in either or both eyes in combination with best corrected visual acuity less than 6/18, the person was asked why the operation for cataract was not done to find out about barriers of cataract surgery. Outcomes of cataract surgery were categorized as good, intermediate and poor using presenting visual acuity which were defined as visual acuity ≥ 6/18, 6/60 ≤ visual acuity < 6/18 and visual acuity < 6/60, respectively. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Cataract surgical coverage, barriers and outcomes of cataract surgery. RESULTS Out of 5638 examined eyes, 526 eyes (9.3%) had history of cataract surgery. 156 subjects (45.7%) had a unilateral and 185 subjects (54.2%) had bilateral operated eyes. Cataract surgical coverage was 66.4% in visually impaired eyes (visual acuity < 6/18), 90.4% in blind eyes (visual acuity < 3/60), 80.5% in visually impaired persons and 97.6% in blind persons. Cataract surgery in the majority of eyes (71.9%) had a good visual outcome. The main barrier of cataract surgery was unawareness of treatment. CONCLUSION Overall, the cataract services in the studied population were acceptable, although it should be improved, to achieve vision 2020 objectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Katibeh
- Ophthalmic Research Centre, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Lepcha NT, Chettri CK, Getshen K, Rai BB, Ramaswamy SB, Saibaba S, Nirmalan PK, Demarchis EH, Tabin G, Morley M, Morley K. Rapid assessment of avoidable blindness in Bhutan. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2013; 20:212-9. [PMID: 23841895 DOI: 10.3109/09286586.2013.794902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
AIM To conduct a rapid assessment of avoidable blindness survey in Bhutan to obtain estimates of blindness, visual impairment, and cataract surgical coverage, outcomes and barriers among persons ≥50 years old. METHODS A total of 82 clusters of 50 people ≥50 years were selected using probability proportionate to size sampling. Eligible participants were selected from households using compact segment sampling, and underwent ophthalmic examination for visual acuity, followed by penlight and direct ophthalmoscopy. Participants with cataract were interviewed regarding surgical outcomes and barriers to surgery. RESULTS Overall, 4046 of 4100 persons enumerated (98.7%) underwent ophthalmic examination. Adjusting for age and sex, the prevalence of bilaterally blind persons with available correction was 1.5% (95% confidence interval 1.09-1.89). Most blindness (67.1%) and severe visual impairment (74.1%) resulted from cataract, but 22.1% resulted from posterior segment pathology. Cataract surgical coverage for bilaterally blind persons was 72.7%. Almost 90% of patients reported moderate or good satisfaction, despite poor surgical outcomes in 23.6%. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of blindness in people aged ≥50 years in Bhutan was relatively low when compared with neighboring countries and World Health Organization sub-region estimates. Areas for improvement include community outreach, surgical outcomes, and posterior segment diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nor Tshering Lepcha
- Cornea and Anterior Segment Division, Department of Ophthalmology, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital, Thimphu, Bhutan.
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Prevalence and outcomes of cataract surgery in adult rural Chinese populations of the Bai nationality in Dali: the Yunnan minority eye study. PLoS One 2013; 8:e60236. [PMID: 23577095 PMCID: PMC3618447 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0060236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2012] [Accepted: 02/23/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the prevalence and visual acuity (VA) outcomes of cataract surgery in adults of the Bai Nationality populations in rural China. METHODS We conducted a population-based cross-sectional survey (from randomly selected block groups) of Chinese Bai Nationality aged ≥50 years in southwestern China. Presenting visual acuity (PVA), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) were recorded and a detailed eye examination was carried out. For all aphakic and pseudophakic subjects identified, information on the date, setting, type, and complications of cataract surgery were recorded. In eyes with VA <20/63, the principal cause of visual impairment was identified. RESULTS Of 2133 (77.8% of 2742) subjects, 99 people (129 eyes) had undergone cataract surgery. The prevalence of cataract surgery was 4.6%. Surgical coverage among those with PVA <20/200 in both eyes because of cataract was 52.8%. Unoperated cataract was associated with older age. The main barrier to cataract surgery was lack of awareness and knowledge, cost, and fear. Among the 129 cataract-operated eyes, 22.5% had PVA of ≥20/32, 25.6% had PVA of 20/40 to 20/63, 23.3% had PVA <20/63 to 20/200, and 28.7% had PVA<20/200. With BCVA, the percentages were 42.6%, 23.3%, 10.9%, and 23.3%, respectively. Aphakia (odds ratio [OR], 8.49; P<0.001) and no education (OR, 10.18; P = 0.001) or less education (OR, 6.49; P = 0.014) were significantly associated with postoperative visual impairment defined by PVA, while aphakia (OR, 8.49; P<0.001) and female gender (OR, 4.19; P = 0.004) were significantly associated with postoperative visual impairment by BCVA. The main causes of postoperative visual impairment were refractive error, retinal disorders and glaucoma. CONCLUSIONS Half of those with bilateral visual impairment or blindness because of cataract remain in need of cataract surgery in Bai population. Surgical uptake and visual outcomes should be further improved in the future.
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Guruprasad BS, Krishnamurthy D, Narendra DP, Ranganath BG, Shamanna RB. Changing Scenario of Cataract Blindness in Kolar District, Karnataka, South India. The Utility of Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness in Reviewing Programs. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2013; 20:89-95. [DOI: 10.3109/09286586.2012.759597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Murthy GVS, John N, Shamanna BR, Pant HB. Elimination of avoidable blindness due to cataract: where do we prioritize and how should we monitor this decade? Indian J Ophthalmol 2013; 60:438-45. [PMID: 22944756 PMCID: PMC3491272 DOI: 10.4103/0301-4738.100545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In the final push toward the elimination of avoidable blindness, cataract occupies a position of eminence for the success of the Right to Sight initiative. Aims: Review existing situation and assess what monitoring indicators may be useful to chart progress towards attaining the goals of Vision 2020. Settings and Design: Review of published papers from low and middle income countries since 2000. Materials and Methods: Published population-based data on prevalence of cataract blindness/visual impairment were accessed and prevalence of cataract blindness/visual impairment computed, where not reported. Data on prevalence of cataract blindness, cataract surgical coverage at different visual acuity cut offs, surgical outcomes, and prevalence of cataract surgery were analyzed. Scatter plots were used to look at relationships of some variables, with Human Development Index (HDI) rank. Available data on Cataract Surgical Rate (CSR) was plotted against prevalence of cataract surgery reported from surveys. Results: Worse HDI Ranks were associated with higher prevalence of cataract blindness. Most studies showed that a significant proportion of the blind were covered by surgery, while a fifth showed that a significant proportion, were operated before they went blind. A good visual outcome after surgery was positively correlated with higher surgical coverage. CSR was positively correlated with cataract surgical coverage. Conclusions: Cataract surgical coverage is increasing in most countries at vision <3/60 and visual outcomes after cataract surgery are improving. Establishing population-based surveillance of cataract surgical need and performance is a strong monitoring tool and will help program planners immensely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gudlavalleti V S Murthy
- Indian Institute of Public Health and South Asia Centre for Disability Inclusive Development and Research, Hyderabad, India
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Lindfield R, Vishwanath K, Ngounou F, Khanna RC. The challenges in improving outcome of cataract surgery in low and middle income countries. Indian J Ophthalmol 2013; 60:464-9. [PMID: 22944761 PMCID: PMC3491277 DOI: 10.4103/0301-4738.100552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cataract is the leading cause of blindness globally and surgery is the only known measure to deal with it effectively. Providing high quality cataract surgical services is critical if patients with cataract are to have their sight restored. A key focus of surgery is the outcome of the procedure. In cataract surgery this is measured predominantly, using visual acuity. Population- and hospital-based studies have revealed that the visual outcome of cataract surgery in many low and middle income settings is frequently sub-optimal, often failing to reach the recommended standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Another way of measuring outcome of cataract surgery is to ask patients for their views on whether surgery has changed the functioning of their eyes and their quality of life. There are different tools available to capture patient views and now, these patient-reported outcomes are becoming more widely used. This paper discusses the visual outcome of cataract surgery and frames the outcome of surgery within the context of the surgical service, suggesting that the process and outcome of care cannot be separated. It also discusses the components of patient-reported outcome tools and describes some available tools in more detail. Finally, it describes a hierarchy of challenges that need to be addressed before a high quality cataract surgical service can be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Lindfield
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Khanna RC, Marmamula S, Krishnaiah S, Giridhar P, Chakrabarti S, Rao GN. Changing trends in the prevalence of blindness and visual impairment in a rural district of India: systematic observations over a decade. Indian J Ophthalmol 2013; 60:492-7. [PMID: 22944766 PMCID: PMC3491282 DOI: 10.4103/0301-4738.100560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Context: Globally, limited data are available on changing trends of blindness from a single region. Aims: To report the changing trends in the prevalence of blindness, visual impairment (VI), and visual outcomes of cataract surgery in a rural district of Andhra Pradesh, India, over period of one decade. Settings and Design: Rural setting; cross-sectional study. Materials and Methods: Using a validated Rapid Assessment of Cataract Surgical Services (RACSS) method, population-based, cross-sectional survey was done in a rural district in the state of Andhra Pradesh, India. Two-stage sampling procedure was used to select participants ≥50 years of age. Further, a comparative analysis was done with participants ≥50 years from the previously concluded Andhra Pradesh Eye Disease Study (APEDS) study, who belonged to the same district. Statistical Analysis: Done using 11th version of Stata. Results: Using RACSS, 2160/2300 (93.9%) participants were examined as compared with the APEDS dataset (n=521). Age and sex adjusted prevalence of blindness in RACSS and APEDS was 8% (95% CI, 6.9–9.1%) and 11% (95% CI, 8.3–13.7%), while that of VI was 13.6% (95% CI, 12.2–15.1%) and 40.3% (95% CI, 36.1–44.5%), respectively. Cataract was the major cause of blindness in both the studies. There was a significant reduction in blindness following cataract surgery as observed through RACSS (17.3%; 95% CI, 13.5–21.8%) compared with APEDS (34%; 95% CI, 20.9–49.3%). Conclusion: There was a significant reduction in prevalence of blindness and VI in this rural district of India over a decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit C Khanna
- Allen Foster Community Eye Health Research Centre, International Centre for Advancement of Rural Eye care; Prof. Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, LV Prasad Marg, Road No #2, Banjarahills, Hyderabad, India
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Visual impairment among weaving communities in Prakasam district in South India. PLoS One 2013; 8:e55924. [PMID: 23409090 PMCID: PMC3567039 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0055924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2012] [Accepted: 01/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To assess the prevalence and causes of visual impairment in weaving communities in Prakasam district in South India state of Andhra Pradesh. Methods Using Rapid Assessment of Visual Impairment (RAVI) methodology, a population based cross-sectional study was conducted. A two-stage sampling strategy was used to select 3000 participants aged ≥40 years. Visual Acuity (VA) was assessed using a tumbling E chart and ocular examinations were performed by trained Para medical ophthalmic personnel. A questionnaire was used to collect personal and demographic information. Blindness and moderate Visual Impairment (VI) was defined as presenting VA <6/60 and <6/18 to 6/60 respectively. VI included blindness and moderate VI. Results 2848 of 3000 enumerated subjects (94.0%) participated. 39% were in 40–49 years age group and 11.8% were aged ≥70 years, 55% were women and nearly half of them had no formal education. 400 (14%; 95% CI: 12.8–15.3) subjects had VI, including blindness in 131 (4.6%; 95% CI: 3.8–5.4) and moderate VI in 269 (9.4%; 95% CI: 8.3–10.5) individuals. On applying multiple logistic regression, VI was significantly associated with older age and no formal education. Though the odds of having VI were higher in females, it was of borderline statistical significance (p = 0.06). Refractive error was the leading cause of all VI followed by cataract (56%). However, refractive errors were the leading cause of moderate VI (73.2%) and cataract was the leading cause of blindness (62.6%). ‘Cannot afford the cost of services’ was the leading barrier for utilization of eye care services (47%). Conclusions There is a significant burden of VI in weaving communities in Andhra Pradesh, India most of which is avoidable. With this information as baseline, services need to be streamlined to address this burden.
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Syed A, Polack S, Eusebio C, Mathenge W, Wadud Z, Mamunur AKM, Foster A, Kuper H. Predictors of attendance and barriers to cataract surgery in Kenya, Bangladesh and the Philippines. Disabil Rehabil 2013; 35:1660-7. [DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2012.748843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Mörchen M, Mao N, Ang C, Bonn TS. Outcome and Monitoring of Cataract Surgical Services at Takeo Province, Cambodia. ASIA-PACIFIC JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY (PHILADELPHIA, PA.) 2012; 1:340-4. [PMID: 26107726 DOI: 10.1097/apo.0b013e3182710eff] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate outcome and monitoring of cataract surgical services at Takeo Eye Hospital, Cambodia DESIGN A prospective, hospital-based report using a cataract surgical record form from the International Center for Eye Health, London. METHODS Data including preoperative and postoperative visual acuity (VA), proportion of ocular pathology, intraoperative and postoperative complications, type of surgery, and causes of poor outcome of all patients with cataract were collected. Exclusion criteria were age of patients being younger than 20 years, combined cataract-glaucoma surgeries, and having traumatic cataract. RESULTS A total of 8211 cataract surgeries were performed from January 2007 to December 2011. Preoperatively, the presenting VA was less than 6/60 in 65.8%. At discharge, 51.8% had a presenting VA of 6/18 or better.Outcome was poor (VA < 6/60) in 10.6%. Over 5 years, the percentage of patients with poor outcome decreased from 12.6% to 8.5%. Total operative complications decreased from 18.2% in 2007 to 3.3% in 2011, with a reduction of vitreous loss from 6.5% to 1.8%. Of all surgeries, 21.2% were performed by resident physicians. At the first follow-up 1 to 3 weeks postoperatively, 62.6% of the patients presented, whereas 23.9% presented for a second follow-up after 4 to 6 weeks. CONCLUSIONS Monitoring of cataract surgical services indicated an increase in quantity and quality. Hospital-based data collection as recommended by the World Health Organization action plan for the prevention of avoidable blindness is possible, but biased data collection has to be considered in the interpretation of the data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manfred Mörchen
- From the Caritas Takeo Eye Hospital, Takeo Province, Cambodia
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Catatrac: a novel red light-emitting diode device for screening cataracts in the developing world. Eye (Lond) 2012; 27:37-41. [PMID: 23099916 DOI: 10.1038/eye.2012.214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS The purpose of this study was to critically evaluate the Catatrac device as a potential tool for rapid cataract screening in the developing world. METHODS Patients attending the day case unit at Gartnavel General Hospital for routine cataract surgery were recruited into the study, and divided into two groups: those with mild cataracts with LogMAR acuities <0.48, and those with advanced cataracts with LogMAR acuities ≥0.48. The subjects were examined without pharmacological dilation in a dimly lit room independently by two nurses. Each patient was then examined by an ophthalmologist with a slit lamp, after dilation. If present, cataracts were graded objectively according to the LOCS III classification system. RESULTS One hundred and twenty-two eyes of 73 patients were screened for the presence or absence of cataract using the Catatrac device. Thirty-nine eyes had mild cataracts, 43 eyes had advanced cataracts, and there were 40 control eyes with no cataracts. For detecting advanced cataracts, the two nurses using the Catatrac device had a specificity of 95.0%, a sensitivity between 86.0 and 93.0%, and κ values between 0.81 and 0.88 for agreement with slit lamp assessment. For detecting mild cataracts the two nurses using the Catatrac device again had a specificity of 95%, sensitivity of 71-84.6%, and κ values between 0.67 and 0.80 for agreement with slit lamp assessment. Interobserver agreement between the two nurses had a κ value of 0.61 for mild cataract and 0.74 for advanced cataract. CONCLUSION The Catatrac device has a high specificity, sensitivity, and interobserver agreement for advanced cataracts. Although having a slightly lower sensitivity for mild cataracts, the authors believe that this study has demonstrated that it may be a low cost and easy to use device for rapid screening of visually significant cataracts in the developing world.
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Bettadapura GS, Donthi K, Datti NP, Ranganath BG, Ramaswamy SB, Jayaram TS. Assessment of avoidable blindness using the rapid assessment of avoidable blindness methodology. NORTH AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2012; 4:389-93. [PMID: 23050247 PMCID: PMC3456477 DOI: 10.4103/1947-2714.100982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Background: More than 90% of visual impairment can either be treated or avoided. Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness methodology provides valid estimates in short time to assess magnitude and causes of blindness. Aims: To estimate the prevalence and causes of blindness in persons above 50 years in Kolar, South India, using the above methodology. Materials and Methods: Sixty one clusters of 50 people aged above 50 years were selected by probability-proportionate to size sampling. Participants were evaluated using a standardized survey form. Persons with vision <20/60 were dilated and examined by an ophthalmologist. Results: Of the 3050 people listed 2907 were examined (95.3%). Prevalence of bilateral blindness in persons was 3.9%; severe visual impairment 3.5%, and visual impairment 10.4%. Untreated cataract was the leading cause of blindness (74.6%) and severe visual impairment (73.3%). Avoidable causes of blindness accounted for 91.2% of all blindness and 95.0% of severe visual impairment. ‘Waiting for maturity’ and ‘No one to accompany’ were the most common barriers to uptake of cataract surgery. Conclusion: Untreated cataract continues to be the leading cause of avoidable blindness. Modified strategies need to be implemented to tackle the burden of cataract blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guruprasad S Bettadapura
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sri Devaraj Urs Medical College, Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research, Tamaka, Kolar, Karnataka, India
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Dhake PV, Dole K, Khandekar R, Deshpande M. Prevalence and causes of avoidable blindness and severe visual impairment in a tribal district of Maharashtra, India. Oman J Ophthalmol 2012; 4:129-34. [PMID: 22279401 PMCID: PMC3263166 DOI: 10.4103/0974-620x.91269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We present the outcomes of a survey conducted in Nandurbar, a tribal district of Maharashtra, India. It was based on "Rapid Assessment for Avoidable Blindness" methodology and conducted in 2009 in Nandurbar, a tribal district of Maharashtra, India. MATERIALS AND METHODS We examined persons of 50 years and older ages. Ophthalmic assistants noted the distant vision [best corrected vision (BCV) and as presented]. Ophthalmologist examined eyes of persons with vision less than 6/18. The principal cause of impairment in each eye and the most "preventable" or "treatable" cause were assigned. We calculated the prevalence rates of bilateral blindness, severe visual impairment (SVI), and moderate visual impairment (MVI). RESULT We examined 2,005/2,300 persons (response rate 87.2%). The prevalence of blindness, SVI, and MVI for the BCV was 1.63% (95% CI 1.11-2.15), 5.93% (95% CI 4.96-6.90), and 14.6% (95% CI 13.2-16.1), respectively. The prevalence of blindness, SVI, and MVI for the presented vision was 1.87% (1.32-2.42), 6.72% (95% CI 5.70-7.74), and 19% (95% CI 17.4-20.6), respectively. Unoperated cataract was responsible for 77% of different visual disabilities. The coverage of existing cataract surgery service was 9.4%. Lack of knowledge about cataract surgery was the main cause of unoperated cataract among 41% of interviewed participants with cataract and SVI. CONCLUSION Unoperated cataract was the main curable cause of visual disabilities in tribal population of India. Increasing awareness and offering cataract surgeries at affordable cost in the district would reduce visual disabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praful V Dhake
- Department of Community Ophthalmology, H V Desai Eye Hospital, Hadapsar, Pune
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Khanna RC, Pallerla SR, Eeda SS, Gudapati BK, Cassard SD, Rani PK, Shantha GPS, Chakrabarti S, Schein OD. Population based outcomes of cataract surgery in three tribal areas of Andhra Pradesh, India: risk factors for poor outcomes. PLoS One 2012; 7:e35701. [PMID: 22567108 PMCID: PMC3342298 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0035701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2011] [Accepted: 03/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To report visual outcomes and risk factors for poor outcomes of cataract surgery in three Integrated Tribal Development Agency (ITDA) areas of Andhra Pradesh, India. Methods and Results Using validated Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) methodology, a population based cross-sectional study, was conducted in three ITDA areas. A two-stage sampling procedure was used to select 7281 participants aged 50 years and above. Vision assessment using a tumbling E chart and standard ocular examinations were completed. Visual outcomes and risk factors for poor outcomes were assessed among subjects undergoing cataract surgery (1548 eyes of 1124 subjects). Mean age at surgery was 67±8 years; Among the operated eyes, presenting visual acuity (PVA) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) worse than 6/18 was seen in 492 (31.8%; 95% CI, 29.5–34.2%) and 298 eyes (19.3%; 95% CI, 17.3–21.3%), respectively. Similarly, PVA and BCVA worse than 6/60 was seen in 219 (14.1%; 95% CI, 12.4–16%) and 147 eyes (9.5%; 95% CI, 8.1–11.1%), respectively. When either eye was taken into consideration, the PVA and BCVA worse than 6/18 was seen in 323 (20.1%; 95% CI, 18.9–23%) and 144 subjects (9.3%; 95% CI, 7.9–10.9%), respectively. PVA and BCVA worse than 6/60 was seen in 74 (4.8%; 95% CI, 3.8–6%) and 49 subjects (3.2%; 95% CI, 2.4–4.2%), respectively. Posterior capsular opacification was seen in 51 of 1316 pseudophakic eyes (3.9%; 95% CI, 2.9–5.1%). In multivariable analysis among pseudophakic subjects with PVA worse than 6/18, increasing age (p = 0.002) and undergoing free surgery (p = 0.05) were independent risk factors. Undergoing surgery before 2005 (p = 0.05) and being illiterate (p = 0.05) were independent risk factors for BCVA worse than 6/18. Conclusions There are changing trends with improved outcomes in cataract surgery among these tribal populations of India. However, post-operative refractive error correction remains an issue, especially for those undergoing free surgeries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit C Khanna
- Brien Holden Eye Research Centre, L.V. Prasad Eye Institute, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, India.
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Tanchangya J, Khan RA, Bayasakh S, Wichaidit W. Gender Disparity in Delayed Treatment-Seeking Behavior for Cataract. Asia Pac J Public Health 2012; 27:NP240-7. [DOI: 10.1177/1010539512437402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective. This study was conducted to explore the role of gender in delayed treatment seeking for cataract at the Impact Jibon Tari Floating Hospital in rural Bangladesh. Method. Existing clinical records were analyzed for patient characteristics based on sex and the role of gender in delayed cataract surgery. Results. A total of 11 174 patients (41.7% female) received surgical treatment for cataract, among which 69.9% (male = 67.7%; female = 73.2%) had visual acuity (VA) of less than 6/60. After adjustment for hypertension, diabetes, side of eye with cataract, and age above 65, women were more likely to come to surgery after VA became less than 6/60 (adjusted odds ratio = 1.19; 95% confidence interval = 1.1-1.29). Discussion and Conclusion. Gender appeared to play a role in seeking treatment at later stages of cataract. Further qualitative studies are needed to determine the mechanism of delayed treatment among women.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sanchir Bayasakh
- Impact Foundation Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- State Research Center on Maternal and Child Health and Human Reproduction (MCH Center), Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Wit Wichaidit
- Impact Foundation Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Thailand
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Abubakar T, Gudlavalleti MVS, Sivasubramaniam S, Gilbert CE, Abdull MM, Imam AU. Coverage of Hospital-based Cataract Surgery and Barriers to the Uptake of Surgery among Cataract Blind Persons in Nigeria: The Nigeria National Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2012; 19:58-66. [DOI: 10.3109/09286586.2011.643271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Rajavi Z, Katibeh M, Ziaei H, Fardesmaeilpour N, Sehat M, Ahmadieh H, Javadi MA. Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness in Iran. Ophthalmology 2011; 118:1812-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2011.01.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2010] [Revised: 11/15/2010] [Accepted: 01/19/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
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Tanchangya J, Geater AF. Use of traditional cooking fuels and the risk of young adult cataract in rural Bangladesh: a hospital-based case-control study. BMC Ophthalmol 2011; 11:16. [PMID: 21679452 PMCID: PMC3148558 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2415-11-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2010] [Accepted: 06/16/2011] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to investigate the independent relationship between the use of various traditional biomass cooking fuels and the occurrence of cataract in young adults in rural Bangladesh. METHODS A hospital-based age- and sex-matched case-control study incorporating two control groups was conducted. Cases were cataract patients aged 18 and 49 years diagnosed on the basis of any opacity of the crystalline lens or its capsule and visual acuity poorer than 6/18 on the Log Mar Visual Acuity Chart in either eye, or who had a pseudophakic lens as a result of cataract surgery within the previous 5 years. Non-eye-disease (NE) controls were selected from patients from ENT or Orthopaedics departments and non-cataract eye-disease (NC) controls from the Ophthalmology department. Data pertaining to history of exposure to various cooking fuels and to established risk factors for cataract were obtained by face-to-face interview and analyzed using conditional logistic regression. RESULTS Clean fuels were used by only 4% of subjects. A majority of males (64-80% depending on group) had never cooked, while the rest had used biomass cooking fuels, mainly wood/dry leaves, with only 6 having used rice straw and/or cow dung. All females of each group had used wood/dry leaves for cooking. Close to half had also used rice straw and/or cow dung. Among females, after controlling for family history of cataract and education and combining the two control groups, case status was shown to be significantly related to lifetime exposure to rice straw, fitted as a trend variable coded as never, ≤median of all exposed, >median of all exposed (OR=1.52, 95%CI 1.04-2.22), but not to lifetime exposure to wood/dry leaves. Case status among females showed an inverse association with ever use of cow dung as a cooking fuel (OR 0.43, 95%CI 0.22-0.81). CONCLUSIONS In this population, where cooking is almost exclusively done using biomass fuels, cases of young adult cataract among females were more likely to have had an increased lifetime exposure to cooking with rice straw fuel and not to have cooked using cow dung fuel. There is a possibility that these apparent associations could have been the result of uncontrolled founding, for instance by wealth. The nature of the associations, therefore, needs to be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joydhan Tanchangya
- Impact "Jibon Tari" Floating Hospital, Impact Foundation Bangladesh, 7th Floor, House 23, Road 113/A, Gulshan-2, Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh
| | - Alan F Geater
- Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, 90112, Thailand
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Kandel RP, Sapkota YD, Sherchan A, Sharma MK, Aghajanian J, Bassett KL. Cataract surgical outcome and predictors of outcome in Lumbini Zone and Chitwan District of Nepal. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2010; 17:276-81. [PMID: 20868253 DOI: 10.3109/09286586.2010.508355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate visual acuity outcome from cataract surgery based on a population-based survey among people aged 50 years and older in Lumbini Zone and Chitwan District of Nepal. METHODS A randomly selected, population-based cross sectional epidemiological study of blindness, visual impairment and cataract surgical outcome was conducted. All subjects underwent a comprehensive ocular examination by an ophthalmic assistant, while people with visual impairment (visual acuity less than 6/18) after refraction and all cataract surgical cases underwent dilated fundus examination by an ophthalmologist. RESULTS 5,916 people were enumerated and 5,141 (86.9%) examined. Among the 359 people who had cataract surgery, 485 eyes were included in the study. First eye surgery was before 2000 in 84 (23%), between 2000 and 2003 in 130 (36%), and after 2003 in 145 (41%). A presenting visual acuity ≥ 6/18 was achieved in 298 (61.4%) eyes (10 [17.8%] and 288 [67.1%] of aphakic and pseudophakic eyes, respectively) and best corrected vision ≥ 6/18 in 411 (84.7%) in all eyes. A presenting visual acuity less than 6/60 was found in 27 (6.3%) pseudophakic eyes. There was no significant difference in visual outcome based on age, sex, literacy, or institution. Uncorrected refractive error was the main cause (72.9%) of visual impairment in pseudophakic eyes. CONCLUSIONS Visual acuity outcome after cataract surgery requires further improvement to meet World Health Organization standards, particularly improvement in preoperative biometry and refractive services. The same quality cataract surgery was provided in and equitably distributed throughout Lumbini Zone and Chitwan District independent of age, sex, literacy or location.
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Polack S, Eusebio C, Mathenge W, Wadud Z, Mamunur A, Fletcher A, Foster A, Kuper H. The Impact of Cataract Surgery on Health Related Quality of Life in Kenya, the Philippines, and Bangladesh. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2010; 17:387-99. [DOI: 10.3109/09286586.2010.528136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Polack
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Allen Foster
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Hannah Kuper
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Kuper H, Polack S, Mathenge W, Eusebio C, Wadud Z, Rashid M, Foster A. Does cataract surgery alleviate poverty? Evidence from a multi-centre intervention study conducted in Kenya, the Philippines and Bangladesh. PLoS One 2010; 5:e15431. [PMID: 21085697 PMCID: PMC2976760 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0015431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2010] [Accepted: 09/21/2010] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Poverty and blindness are believed to be intimately linked, but empirical data supporting this purported relationship are sparse. The objective of this study is to assess whether there is a reduction in poverty after cataract surgery among visually impaired cases. Methodology/Principal Findings A multi-centre intervention study was conducted in three countries (Kenya, Philippines, Bangladesh). Poverty data (household per capita expenditure – PCE, asset ownership and self-rated wealth) were collected from cases aged ≥50 years who were visually impaired due to cataract (visual acuity<6/24 in the better eye) and age-sex matched controls with normal vision. Cases were offered free/subsidised cataract surgery. Approximately one year later participants were re-interviewed about poverty. 466 cases and 436 controls were examined at both baseline and follow-up (Follow up rate: 78% for cases, 81% for controls), of which 263 cases had undergone cataract surgery (“operated cases”). At baseline, operated cases were poorer compared to controls in terms of PCE (Kenya: $22 versus £35 p = 0.02, Bangladesh: $16 vs $24 p = 0.004, Philippines: $24 vs 32 p = 0.0007), assets and self-rated wealth. By follow-up PCE had increased significantly among operated cases in each of the three settings to the level of controls (Kenya: $30 versus £36 p = 0.49, Bangladesh: $23 vs $23 p = 0.20, Philippines: $45 vs $36 p = 0.68). There were smaller increases in self-rated wealth and no changes in assets. Changes in PCE were apparent in different socio-demographic and ocular groups. The largest PCE increases were apparent among the cases that were poorest at baseline. Conclusions/Significance This study showed that cataract surgery can contribute to poverty alleviation, particularly among the most vulnerable members of society. This study highlights the need for increased provision of cataract surgery to poor people and shows that a focus on blindness may help to alleviate poverty and achieve the Millennium Development Goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Kuper
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom.
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Polack S, Eusebio C, Fletcher A, Foster A, Kuper H. Visual impairment from cataract and health related quality of life: results from a case-control study in the Philippines. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2010; 17:152-9. [PMID: 20455844 DOI: 10.3109/09286581003731536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate a vision related quality of life (VRQoL) scale, the World Health Organization Prevention of Blindness and Deafness Visual Function-20 (WHO/ PBD VF20) and describe the relationship between visual impairment from cataract and vision related and generic Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) in a case-control study of adults aged > or = 50 years in the Philippines. METHODS Two hundred and thirty eight population based persons visually impaired from cataract and 163 age- gender- matched controls with normal vision were interviewed using the WHO/PBD VF20 and European Quality of Life (EuroQol) questionnaire (an HRQoL). The WHO/PBD VF20 was evaluated using standard psychometric tests. RESULTS The WHO/PBD VF20 had good item acceptability and validity. Cases had significantly poorer VRQoL than controls and worsening Visual Acuity (VA) was associated with worsening VRQoL. The general functioning subscale had good internal consistency. The psychosocial sub-scale had a Cronbach's alpha of 0.61, just below the generally accepted criteria of 0.70. Cases were much more likely than controls to report problems with the Euroqol five descriptive domains (EQ-5D)and had significantly poorer self-rated health. CONCLUSIONS The study supports the use of the WHO/PBD VF20 in a Philippine population and highlights the worsening VRQoL associated with cataract vision loss. The poorer generic HRQoL among cases compared to controls indicates an impact of visual impairment on perceived health and well-being, beyond vision-specific experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Polack
- London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
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Gamra HA, Mansouri FA, Khandekar R, Elshafei M, Qahtani OA, Singh R, Hashim SP, Mujahed A, Makled A, Pai A. Prevalence and Causes of Blindness, Low Vision and Status of Cataract in 50 Years and Older Citizen of Qatar—A Community Based Survey. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2010; 17:292-300. [DOI: 10.3109/09286586.2010.508350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Chiang F, Kuper H, Lindfield R, Keenan T, Seyam N, Magauran D, Khalilia N, Batta H, Abdeen Z, Sargent N. Rapid assessment of avoidable blindness in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. PLoS One 2010; 5:e11854. [PMID: 20686616 PMCID: PMC2912325 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0011854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2009] [Accepted: 05/21/2010] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are no recent data on the prevalence and causes of blindness in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. The aim of our study was to estimate the prevalence and causes of blindness and visual impairment in the population aged 50 years and above in the Occupied Palestinian Territories using the Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) survey method. METHODS AND FINDINGS Clusters of 40 people who were 50 years and above were selected with probability proportionate to size using a multistage cluster random sampling method. Participants received a comprehensive ophthalmic examination in their homes, including visual acuity testing by one of three experienced ophthalmologists. The principal cause for visual loss was determined by an experienced ophthalmologist using portable diagnostic instruments. Information about previous cataract surgery, satisfaction with surgery and barriers to cataract surgery were collected. The prevalence of self-reported diabetes was also determined. The prevalence of bilateral blindness (VA<3/60 in the better eye with available correction) was 3.4% (95% CI: 2.7-4.0), 2.0% (95% CI: 1.4-2.5) for severe visual impairment (VA>or=3/60 and <6/60), and 7.4% (95% CI: 6.4-8.3) for visual impairment (VA>or=6/60 and <6/18). Avoidable causes (i.e. cataract, refractive error, aphakia, surgical complications, corneal scarring and phthysis) accounted for 80.0% of bilateral blindness, severe visual impairment (70.7%) and visual impairment (86.2%). Cataract was the main cause of blindness (55.0%). The prevalence of blindness was higher in Gaza (4.9%, 95% CI: 3.7-6.1%) than in the West Bank (2.5%, 95% CI: 1.9-3.1%) and among women (4.3%,95% CI: 3.3-5.2%) compared to men (2.2%,95%CI:1.5-2.9%). Among people who had undergone cataract surgery in the past, only 54.5% of eyes obtained a good outcome (VA>or=6/18), 23.2% had a borderline outcome (VA<6/18 and >or=6/60) and 22.3% had a poor outcome (VA<6/60) with available correction. The prevalence of self-reported diabetes mellitus in >or=50 year age group was 26.4% (95% CI: 24.9-27.9). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of blindness suggests that significant numbers of people in the Occupied Palestinian Territories exist who do not access eye care - predominantly women and those residing in Gaza. Programmes need to focus on maximizing the use of current services by these excluded groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Far Chiang
- St. John Eye Hospital, Jerusalem, Occupied Palestinian Territories
| | - Hannah Kuper
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robert Lindfield
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tiarnan Keenan
- Manchester Royal Eye Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Na'el Seyam
- Military Medical Services, Gaza, Occupied Palestinian Territories
| | - Denise Magauran
- Epsom and St. Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, Sutton, United Kingdom
| | | | - Habes Batta
- St. John Eye Hospital, Jerusalem, Occupied Palestinian Territories
| | - Ziad Abdeen
- Al-Quds Nutrition and Health Research Institute, Al Quds University, Jerusalem, Occupied Palestinian Territories
| | - Nicholas Sargent
- St. John Eye Hospital, Jerusalem, Occupied Palestinian Territories
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Murthy GVS, Vashist P, John N, Pokharel G, Ellwein LB. Prevalence and vision-related outcomes of cataract surgery in Gujarat, India. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2010; 16:400-9. [PMID: 19995206 DOI: 10.3109/09286580903315809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Investigate the prevalence and vision-related outcomes of cataract surgery in an area of high cataract surgical rate. METHODS Cluster sampling was used in randomly selecting individuals > or = 50 years of age in 2007. Participants were queried regarding year and place of previous cataract surgery. Cataract surgical procedures and evidence of surgical complications were recorded. The principal cause was identified for eyes presenting with visual acuity (VA) < or = 20/40. RESULTS A total of 4,738 persons were examined and 834 (17.6%) had cataract surgery. Intra-ocular lenses (IOLs) were used in 84.1% of the 1,299 cataract-operated eyes, with more than half of these having manual small incision surgery. Surgical coverage among the cataract blind (visual acuity [VA] < 20/200) was estimated as 72.2%. Coverage was associated with older age, literacy, and urban residence; gender was not significant. Among cataract-operated eyes, 18.7% presented with VA > or = 20/32 and 18.0% were < 20/200. With best-corrected acuity, the corresponding percentages were 55.7% and 11.0%. Presenting and best-corrected VA > or = 20/63 were associated with young age, literacy, and IOL surgery; urban residence and surgery in non-governmental organizations (NGO)/private facilities were also significant for presenting VA; and recent surgery was significant for best-corrected VA. Refractive error was the main cause of vision impairment/blindness in cataract-operated eyes. CONCLUSIONS Refractive error and posterior capsule opacification, easily treatable causes of visual impairment, are common among the operated. A greater emphasis on the quality of visual acuity outcomes along with sustained efforts to provide access to affordable surgery is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gudlavalleti V S Murthy
- International Center for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
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Athanasiov PA, Edussuriya K, Senaratne T, Sennanayake S, Selva D, Casson RJ. Cataract in central Sri Lanka: cataract surgical coverage and self-reported barriers to cataract surgery. Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2009; 37:780-4. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-9071.2009.02152.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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