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Philippin H, Morny EKA, Heinrich SP, Töws I, Maier PC, Guthoff RF, Qureshi BM, Reinhard T, Burton MJ, Finger RP. [Global ophthalmology : Update]. DIE OPHTHALMOLOGIE 2024; 121:157-170. [PMID: 38300260 DOI: 10.1007/s00347-023-01983-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
The aim of global ophthalmology is to maximize vision, ocular health and functional ability, thereby contributing to overall health and well-being, social inclusion and quality of life of every individual worldwide. Currently, an estimated 1.1 billion people live with visual impairment, 90% of which can be prevented or cured through largely cost-effective interventions. At the same time, 90% of people affected live in regions with insufficient eye health coverage. This challenge drove the World Health Organization (WHO) and a group of nongovernmental organizations to launch "VISION 2020: the Right to Sight", a global campaign which recently concluded after 20 years. The achievements, challenges and lessons learned were identified and incorporated into the current campaign "2030 IN SIGHT".
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Affiliation(s)
- Heiko Philippin
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Killianstr. 5, 79106, Freiburg i. Brsg., Deutschland.
- International Centre for Eye Health, Faculty of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, WC1E 7HTUK, London, Vereinigtes Königreich.
- CBM Christoffel-Blindenmission Christian Blind Mission, Bensheim, Deutschland.
| | - Enyam K A Morny
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Killianstr. 5, 79106, Freiburg i. Brsg., Deutschland
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Sven P Heinrich
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Killianstr. 5, 79106, Freiburg i. Brsg., Deutschland
| | - Ingrid Töws
- Institut für Evidenz in der Medizin, Universitätsklinikum und Medizinische Fakultät, Universität Freiburg, Freiburg i. Brsg., Deutschland
| | - Philip C Maier
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Killianstr. 5, 79106, Freiburg i. Brsg., Deutschland
| | - Rudolf F Guthoff
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Universität Rostock, Rostock, Deutschland
| | - Babar M Qureshi
- CBM Christoffel-Blindenmission Christian Blind Mission, Cambridge, Vereinigtes Königreich
| | - Thomas Reinhard
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Killianstr. 5, 79106, Freiburg i. Brsg., Deutschland
| | - Matthew J Burton
- Klinik für Augenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Freiburg, Medizinische Fakultät, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Killianstr. 5, 79106, Freiburg i. Brsg., Deutschland
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre for Ophthalmology at Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, Vereinigtes Königreich
| | - Robert P Finger
- Augenklinik, Universitätsklinikum Mannheim, Universität Heidelberg, Mannheim, Deutschland
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Harutyunyan T, Giloyan A, Petrosyan V. Health-Related Quality of Life after Cataract Surgery in Armenia: A Cross-Sectional Survey. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2429. [PMID: 37685463 PMCID: PMC10487762 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11172429] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cataract surgery helps to enhance visual function and improve the quality of life of cataract patients. The present study assessed visual outcomes and explored health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and factors associated with it following cataract surgery in Armenia. An interviewer-administered survey along with the ophthalmologic examination was conducted among 248 patients. It explored socio-demographic characteristics, use of eye care services, smoking status, comorbidities, and receiving and giving social support. A Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) was used to measure HRQoL. Simple and multivariable linear regression was used for the analysis. About 72.8% of examined eyes had good visual outcomes, while 17.7% had borderline outcomes. Poor visual outcomes were detected in 9.5% of the eyes. The mean composite SF-36 score for physical health was 50.8, while the mean composite score for mental health was 49.9. Gender, socioeconomic status, having a non-communicable disease, and receiving and giving tangible social support were significantly associated with SF-36 physical component in the adjusted analysis, while the variables which demonstrated significant association with the mental component included socioeconomic status, having a non-communicable disease, and giving tangible support. The visual outcome after cataract surgery in Armenian patients is below WHO-recommended standards. The quality of ophthalmological surgical care should be monitored to maximize the visual outcome in Armenian patients, with a focus on women, patients with poor socioeconomic status, and those with non-communicable diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsovinar Harutyunyan
- Turpanjian College of Health Sciences, American University of Armenia, Yerevan 0019, Armenia; (A.G.); (V.P.)
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Qiu C, Feng X, Zeng J, Jiang Y. Relationships between Cataract Surgery Patient-Perceived Discharge Teaching Quality, Discharge Readiness, and Post-Discharge Outcomes: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on Regression Modeling Analysis. Ophthalmic Res 2022; 66:328-338. [PMID: 36353771 DOI: 10.1159/000527958] [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: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A short hospital stay makes discharge planning services especially critical for patients undergoing cataract surgery. Studies on discharge teaching quality, discharge readiness, and post-discharge outcomes for patients with cataracts are lacking. Our study aimed to explore the relationships between the perceived discharge teaching quality, discharge readiness, and post-discharge outcomes of cataract surgery patients and to conduct a differential analysis between inpatient and day ward patients. METHODS We recruited 387 patients from the ophthalmology ward of a top-tier hospital in western China through convenience sampling. Data were collected on the day of discharge and at 2 weeks post-discharge. Statistical methods included multiple linear regression analysis, χ2 test, and the Mann-Whitney U test. RESULTS Regression models indicated that discharge teaching quality was the key factor of discharge readiness, while post-discharge outcomes were influenced by discharge readiness and discharge teaching quality. Further, inpatients' discharge teaching quality, discharge readiness, and post-discharge subjective feelings were better than those of day ward patients. CONCLUSIONS The effect of discharge planning services on patients undergoing cataract surgery was generally satisfactory. High-quality discharge teaching can enhance patients' discharge readiness, further improving their post-discharge outcomes. When conducting discharge teaching, day ward medical staff should pay more attention to patients' demands and explore a more effective teaching delivery method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chujin Qiu
- West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,
- Department of Nursing, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China,
| | - Xianqiong Feng
- West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jihong Zeng
- Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yan Jiang
- Department of Nursing, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Hambisa MT, Dolja-Gore X, Byles J. Application of Andersen-Newman model to assess cataract surgery uptake among older Australian women: findings from the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (ALSWH). Aging Clin Exp Res 2022; 34:1673-1685. [PMID: 35184260 PMCID: PMC9246771 DOI: 10.1007/s40520-022-02091-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although Cataract Surgery Rate is increasing, the availability of surgery is outstripped by the increasing number of cataract cases as populations age. AIM The study aimed to identify factors associated with cataract surgery uptake in terms of predisposing, enabling, and need factors in very old Australian women. METHOD This study used ALSWH data included 6229 women aged 79-84 to 85-90 years. Women were asked whether they had undergone eye surgery (including cataracts) three years prior to each survey. Generalised estimating equation modelling was used to determine factors associated with these surgeries. RESULT At baseline (2005), more than half of the participants either had undergone surgery (43.5%) or had unoperated cataracts (7.6%). Increasing age (AOR = 1.11, 95% CI = 1.07, 1.15) and being current or ex-smokers (AOR = 1.15, 95% CI = 1.03, 1.29) were associated with higher odds of cataract surgery (predisposing factors). Women who had private health insurance had 27% higher odds of having surgery (AOR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.16, 1.39) (enabling factor). Need factors of more General Practitioner visits (AOR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.09, 1.25) and skin cancer (AOR = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.01, 1.17) also increased the odds of cataract surgery. Women who had no difficulty seeing newspaper print were more likely to have had cataract surgery (AOR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.23, 1.48). CONCLUSION Need factors are the major drivers of cataract surgery; however, predisposing and enabling factors also play a role, including access to private health insurance. This finding indicates some inequity regarding access to cataract surgery in the Australian setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitiku Teshome Hambisa
- Centre for Women's Health Research, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
- School of Public Health, Haramaya University College of Health and Medical Sciences, P. O. Box 235, Harar, Ethiopia.
| | - Xenia Dolja-Gore
- Centre for Women's Health Research, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Julie Byles
- Centre for Women's Health Research, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Centre for Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
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Van Draanen L, Xiao C, Polymeropoulos MH. Estimating Burden of Disease Among Blind Individuals With Non-24-Hour Sleep-Wake Disorder. Front Neurol 2021; 11:605240. [PMID: 33551967 PMCID: PMC7859444 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.605240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To quantify the burden of disease in blind patients with Non-24-H Sleep- Wake Disorder (N24HSWD), utilizing longitudinal sleep diary data. N24HSWD is a circadian disorder characterized by a cyclical pattern of aberrant circadian and sleep-wake cycles that are associated with increased frequency of sleep episodes during the school/work day hours. Daytime sleep episodes would be predicted to decrease the opportunity for school/work participation, significantly impacting the quality of life of the patient. Methods: We used the sleep diary data of daytime sleep from a period of ~90 days in blind individuals that presented with a sleep complaint. These subjects were identified from a group of blind individuals with N24HSWD (n = 121) and a control group of blind individuals without N24HSWD (n = 57). Results: N24HSWD patients had more frequent and longer episodes of daytime sleep as compared to a control group. Using duration of daytime sleep as a surrogate for defining a healthy or unhealthy day, N24HSWD patients also had significantly fewer healthy days, defined by daytime sleep free days (DSFD), days without a sleep episode between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m, as compared to the control group. Conclusion: Daytime sleep free day (DSFD) is a useful and specific measure of disease burden in patients with N24HSWD and it is predicted to be correlated with the standardized HRQOL-4, Healthy Days measurement.
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Muthuri RNDK, Senkubuge F, Hongoro C. Predictors of Health-Related Quality of Life among Healthcare Workers in the Context of Health System Strengthening in Kenya. Healthcare (Basel) 2020; 9:18. [PMID: 33375536 PMCID: PMC7824200 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9010018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Kenya is among the countries with an acute shortage of skilled health workers. There have been recurrent health worker strikes in Kenya due to several issues, some of which directly or indirectly affect their health. The purpose of this study was to investigate the predictors of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) among healthcare workers in public and mission hospitals in Meru County, Kenya. A cross-sectional study design was undertaken among 553 healthcare workers across 24 hospitals in Meru County. The participants completed the EuroQol-five dimension-five level (EQ-5D-5L) instrument, which measures health status across five dimensions and the overall self-assessment of health status on a visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS). Approximately 66.55% of the healthcare workers reported no problems (i.e., 11,111) across the five dimensions. The six predictors of HRQOL among the healthcare workers were hospital ownership (p < 0.05), age (p < 0.05), income (p < 0.01), availability of water for handwashing (p < 0.05), presence of risk in using a toilet facility (p < 0.05), and overall safety of hospital work environment (p < 0.05). Personal, job-related attributes and work environment characteristics are significant predictors of healthcare workers HRQOL. Thus, these factors ought to be considered by health policymakers and managers when developing and implementing policies and programs aimed at promoting HRQOL among healthcare workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rose Nabi Deborah Karimi Muthuri
- School of Health Systems and Public Health (SHSPH), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, Gauteng Province, South Africa; (F.S.); (C.H.)
| | - Flavia Senkubuge
- School of Health Systems and Public Health (SHSPH), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, Gauteng Province, South Africa; (F.S.); (C.H.)
| | - Charles Hongoro
- School of Health Systems and Public Health (SHSPH), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, Gauteng Province, South Africa; (F.S.); (C.H.)
- Developmental, Capable and Ethical State Division, Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), Pretoria 0001, Gauteng Province, South Africa
- Faculty of Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria 0183, Gauteng Province, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Fort Hare University, Alice 5700, Eastern Cape, South Africa
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Jain S, Chauhan A, Rajshekar K, Vashist P, Gupta P, Mathur U, Gupta N, Gupta V, Dutta P, Gauba VK. Generic and vision related quality of life associated with different types of cataract surgeries and different types of intraocular lens implantation. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240036. [PMID: 33007038 PMCID: PMC7531837 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of different types of cataract surgeries and intraocular lenses on generic as well as vision related quality of life of cataract patients, using EQ-5D and IND-VFQ 33 instruments respectively. METHODS An observational, longitudinal study of patients undergoing cataract surgery was carried out at three ophthalmology centres. Patients were prospectively admitted for surgery for age-related cataract. Generic quality of life was assessed by using Euroqol's EQ5D-5L questionnaire and vision related quality of life was assessed by the IND-VFQ-33 questionnaire. Data pertaining to vision function and quality of life were collected pre surgery and 4 weeks after the surgery. RESULTS Out of total patients (n = 814) recruited for the study, 517 patients were interviewed for both pre-surgery and post-surgery for EQ5D and 519 patients were interviewed for both pre-surgery and post-surgery for IND VFQ 33 tool. The combined data from all three centres showed that Quality Adjusted Life Year (QALY) gains observed in patients undergoing phacoemulsification with foldable lens implantation (2.25 QALY) were significantly higher (0.57 QALY) as compared to Small Incision Cataract Surgery (SICS) with PMMA lens implantation (1.68 QALY). Highest improvement however, in all three subscales of IND-VFQ-33 tool were clearly observed for SICS with PMMA lens implantation. CONCLUSIONS The study has elicited the Health related and vision related Quality of Life scores for cataract surgeries and subsequent lens implantation. This study also offers Health State Utility Values along with visual outcomes for different surgical procedures, lenses and for the combination of surgery with lens implantation for cataract procedures providing a useful resource for future economic evaluation studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shalu Jain
- Health Technology Assessment in India, Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi, India
| | - Akshay Chauhan
- Health Technology Assessment in India, Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi, India
| | - Kavitha Rajshekar
- Health Technology Assessment in India, Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi, India
| | - Praveen Vashist
- Community Ophthalmology, Dr. R. P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, India
| | - Promila Gupta
- National Programme for Control of Blindness & Visual Impairment, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi, India
| | - Umang Mathur
- Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, Daryaganj, New Delhi, India
| | - Noopur Gupta
- Community Ophthalmology, Dr. R. P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, India
| | - Vivek Gupta
- Community Ophthalmology, Dr. R. P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, India
| | - Parul Dutta
- Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, Daryaganj, New Delhi, India
| | - Vijay Kumar Gauba
- Health Technology Assessment in India, Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi, India
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Gandhi M, Ang M, Teo K, Wong CW, Wei YCH, Tan RLY, Janssen MF, Luo N. A vision 'bolt-on' increases the responsiveness of EQ-5D: preliminary evidence from a study of cataract surgery. THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS : HEPAC : HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PREVENTION AND CARE 2020; 21:501-511. [PMID: 31902023 DOI: 10.1007/s10198-019-01156-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES (1) To evaluate the effect of adding a vision dimension ('bolt-on') to the 5-level EQ-5D (EQ-5D-5L) and 3-level EQ-5D (EQ-5D-3L) on their responsiveness, and (2) to compare the responsiveness of a vision 'bolt-on' EQ-5D-3L (EQ-5D-3L + V) with SF-6D and Health Utilities Index Mark 3 (HUI3) to the benefit of cataract surgery. METHODS Sixty-three patients were assessed before and after their cataract surgery using the EQ-5D-3L, EQ-5D-5L, SF-6D, HUI3, as well as a 3-level and a 5-level vision dimension. Preference-based indices were calculated using available value sets for EQ-5D-3L, EQ-5D-3L + V, EQ-5D-5L, SF-6D, and HUI3, and non-preference-based indices were calculated using the sum-score method for EQ-5D-5L and EQ-5D-5L + V (vision bolt-on EQ-5D-5L). Responsiveness was assessed using the standardized response mean (SRM) and F-statistic. RESULTS Among preference-based indices, mean changes from pre to post-surgery in EQ-5D-3L + V and EQ-5D-3L indices were 0.031 and 0.018, respectively. The mean changes for EQ-5D-5L, SF-6D and HUI3 indices were 0.020, 0.012 and 0.105, respectively. The SRM (F-statistic) for EQ-5D-3L + V and EQ-5D-3L indices were 0.458 (13.2) and 0.098 (0.6), respectively. The responsiveness of EQ-5D-3L + V was better than EQ-5D-5L, SF-6D; the responsiveness of HUI3 was better than all other measures. Using non-preference-based indices, mean change for EQ-5D-5L + V and EQ-5D-5L were 0.067 and 0.017, respectively. The corresponding SRM (F-statistic) were 0.709 (31.7) and 0.295 (5.4). CONCLUSIONS Preliminary evidence from our study suggests that a vision 'bolt-on' may increase the responsiveness of EQ-5D-3L and EQ-5D-5L to change in health outcomes experienced by patients undergoing cataract surgery. In absence of the preference-based vision bolt-on EQ-5D-5L index, HUI3 was the most responsive measure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihir Gandhi
- Department of Biostatistics, Singapore Clinical Research Institute, #02-01, 31 Biopolis Way, Singapore, Singapore
- Centre for Quantitative Medicine, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, Singapore
- Tampere Center for Child Health Research, Tampere University, Arvo-building, Tampere, Finland
| | - Marcus Ang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Singapore National Eye Centre, 11 Third Hospital Ave, Singapore, Singapore
- Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Department, Duke-NUS Medical School, 8 College Road, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kelvin Teo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Singapore National Eye Centre, 11 Third Hospital Ave, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chee Wai Wong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Singapore National Eye Centre, 11 Third Hospital Ave, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yvonne Chung-Hsi Wei
- Department of Ophthalmology, Singapore National Eye Centre, 11 Third Hospital Ave, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rachel Lee-Yin Tan
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 2, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Mathieu F Janssen
- Section Medical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nan Luo
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, 12 Science Drive 2, Singapore, Singapore.
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Zitha AJ, Rampersad N. Impact of cataract surgery on vision-related quality of life. AFRICAN VISION AND EYE HEALTH 2020. [DOI: 10.4102/aveh.v79i1.498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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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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Measuring perinatal and postpartum quality of life of women and associated factors in semi-urban Bangladesh. Qual Life Res 2019; 28:2989-3004. [PMID: 31312976 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-019-02247-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this study was to measure the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among pregnant women in the perinatal and postpartum periods and determine influencing factors that predict their HRQoL. METHODS The study was conducted among pregnant women who live in a semi-urban area of Chandpur, Bangladesh. A total of 465 women were recruited. The EuroQoL 5-Dimension 3-Level (EQ-5D-3L) and EuroQoL visual analog scale (EQ-VAS) instruments were used to measure the HRQoL of participants. Two-sample mean test (t test) was performed to examine the changes in HRQoL between the perinatal and postnatal periods of the same individuals. Multivariate linear regression was employed to identify the factors influencing HRQoL during the two periods. RESULTS Overall, the HRQoL scores improved significantly from the perinatal (0.49) to postpartum (0.86) period. Approximately 58% of women experienced moderate or extreme levels of health problems during the perinatal period regardless of their health status. However, most women had significantly improved health status in the postpartum period. Gestational weight gain and recommended postnatal care were significantly associated with improved HRQoL. Factors that negatively influenced changes in HRQoL included adolescent motherhood, caesarean delivery, inadequate antenatal care consultations and living in a poor household, during both the perinatal and postpartum periods. CONCLUSIONS Overall health status is found to be poor among women during the perinatal period compared with the postpartum period. The study indicates that interventions to address the influencing factors are needed to ensure better quality of life for women both pre- and post-birth. Community-based initiatives, such as awareness building, might address negative factors and subsequently improve health status and reduce adverse health outcomes related to pregnancy and postnatal care.
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Furtado JM, Berezovsky A, Ferraz NN, Muñoz S, Fernandes AG, Watanabe SS, Cunha CC, Vasconcelos GC, Sacai PY, Cypel M, Mitsuhiro MH, Morales PH, Cohen MJ, Campos M, Cohen JM, Belfort R, Salomão SR. Prevalence and Causes of Visual Impairment and Blindness in Adults Aged 45 Years and Older from Parintins: The Brazilian Amazon Region Eye Survey. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2019; 26:345-354. [DOI: 10.1080/09286586.2019.1624783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- João M. Furtado
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Departamento de Oftalmologia, Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia de Cabeça e Pescoço, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Adriana Berezovsky
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Nívea N. Ferraz
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Sergio Muñoz
- Departamento de Salud Publica, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Arthur G. Fernandes
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Sung S. Watanabe
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Cristina C. Cunha
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Belém, PA, Brazil
| | - Galton C. Vasconcelos
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Oftalmologia e Otorrinolaringologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Paula Y. Sacai
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcela Cypel
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Márcia H. Mitsuhiro
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Paulo H. Morales
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcos J. Cohen
- Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Cirurgia, Divisão de Oftalmologia, Universidade Federal do Amazonas (UFAM), Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - Mauro Campos
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Jacob M. Cohen
- Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Cirurgia, Divisão de Oftalmologia, Universidade Federal do Amazonas (UFAM), Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - Rubens Belfort
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Solange R. Salomão
- Departamento de Oftalmologia e Ciências Visuais, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Fung SSM, Luis J, Hussain B, Bunce C, Hingorani M, Hancox J. Patient-reported outcome measuring tools in cataract surgery: Clinical comparison at a tertiary hospital. J Cataract Refract Surg 2018; 42:1759-1767. [PMID: 28007107 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcrs.2016.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Revised: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the performance of patient-reported outcome measure questionnaires and determine their appropriateness for routine use in cataract patients. SETTING Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. METHODS Patients having cataract surgery between February and March 2013 were recruited. The following 4 questionnaires-Catquest-9SF, EuroQol 5-dimensions questionnaire (EQ-5D) and visual analog scale (EQ-VAS), National Eye Institute Socioemotional Scale (NEI-SES), and short-form Visual Function Index (VF-8R)-were completed preoperatively and 3 weeks and 3 months postoperatively. The questionnaires' performances were then compared. The paired Student t test and Pearson correlations were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS One hundred twenty-two patients were recruited; 67.2% and 61.8% completed 3-week and 3-month follow-up, respectively. The changes in the mean scores for the Catquest-9SF, EQ-5D, EQ-VAS, NEI-SES, and VF-8R at 3 weeks were 120.86% (P < .0001), 1.61% (P = .61), 3.37% (P = .09), 16.12% (P = .12), and 61.76 % (P < .0001), respectively. At 3 months, the changes were 162.42% (P < .0001), 4.54% (P = .16), 4.84% (P = .09), 54.63% (P < .0001), and 87.55% (P < .0001), respectively. Correlations between patient-reported outcome measure questionnaires and visual acuity measures were variable and weak at best. CONCLUSIONS It is feasible to assess patient-reported outcomes in cataract surgery as part of routine clinical practice. In addition, visual acuity might not fully reflect patients' visual function. Clinicians should consider using patient-reported outcome measure questionnaires to facilitate surgical decision-making and outcome monitoring. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE None of the authors has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon S M Fung
- From Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (Fung, Hussain, Bunce, Hingorani, Hancox) and St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (Luis), London, United Kingdom.
| | - Joshua Luis
- From Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (Fung, Hussain, Bunce, Hingorani, Hancox) and St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (Luis), London, United Kingdom
| | - Badrul Hussain
- From Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (Fung, Hussain, Bunce, Hingorani, Hancox) and St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (Luis), London, United Kingdom
| | - Catey Bunce
- From Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (Fung, Hussain, Bunce, Hingorani, Hancox) and St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (Luis), London, United Kingdom
| | - Melanie Hingorani
- From Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (Fung, Hussain, Bunce, Hingorani, Hancox) and St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (Luis), London, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne Hancox
- From Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (Fung, Hussain, Bunce, Hingorani, Hancox) and St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (Luis), London, United Kingdom
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Berle D, Steel Z, Essue BM, Keay L, Jan S, Tan Phuc H, Hackett ML. Multisite prospective investigation of psychological outcomes following cataract surgery in Vietnam. BMJ Glob Health 2017; 2:e000162. [PMID: 28589001 PMCID: PMC5321390 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2016-000162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Revised: 11/25/2016] [Accepted: 12/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cataract surgery is a low-cost and effective intervention. There is increasing evidence to suggest that cataract surgery is associated with improvements in mobility, overall functioning and reductions in psychological distress. Within low-income and middle-income countries, cataract surgery has also been documented to lead to reductions in psychological distress; however, differences in economic activity and engagement in paid and domestic work in these countries may moderate such reductions. We aimed to examine the psychological outcomes following cataract surgery among a diverse Vietnamese sample. Methods We report findings from the VISIONARY study, a 12-month multisite prospective study of cataract surgery outcomes conducted in Vietnam (N=462). Generalised estimating equations (GEEs) were used to identify the variables which were associated with reduced psychological distress. Results A high proportion of participants (56.6%) reported psychological distress before surgery and severity of psychological distress had decreased by 12 months following surgery (95% CI (4.13 to 4.95)). There were regional differences in the extent of improvement in psychological distress and change in paid and unpaid work. The extent of improvement in visual acuity, male gender, and increase in paid and unpaid work hours were significant predictors of reductions in psychological distress. Conclusions Cataract surgery appears to result in the greatest reductions in psychological distress in communities where work engagement is highest. Funding The VISIONARY study was funded by a grant provided by the Fred Hollows Foundation, Australia. During the course of this work, BME was in receipt of an Ian Potter Foundation Fellowship and a National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) fellowship (1072148), SJ received an NHMRC Senior Research Fellowship, MLH was in receipt of a National Heart Foundation Future Leader Fellowship 100034.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Berle
- Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Zachary Steel
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,St John of God Health Care, Richmond Hospital, North Richmond, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Beverley M Essue
- The George Institute for Global Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Lisa Keay
- The George Institute for Global Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stephen Jan
- The George Institute for Global Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Huynh Tan Phuc
- The Fred Hollows Foundation Vietnam, Da Nang City, Vietnam
| | - Maree L Hackett
- The George Institute for Global Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Holmes W, Shajehan R, Kitnasamy S, Abeywickrama C, Arsath Y, Gnanaraj F, Inbaraj S, Jayakody G, Durrant K, Luchters S. Impact of vision impairment and self-reported barriers to vision care: The views of elders in Nuwara Eliya district, Sri Lanka. Glob Public Health 2016; 13:642-655. [PMID: 27760492 DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2016.1241816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The growing burden of vision impairment (VI) among older people is a development challenge in Asian countries. This study aimed to understand older people's views and experiences about the impact of VI and barriers to eye care to inform policies to address this challenge. We conducted 12 focus group discussions in 2013 with retired Tamil and Sinhala elders in Nuwara Eliya district, Sri Lanka (n = 107). Data were analysed thematically. Older people described the broad impacts VI has on their lives. They worry about becoming dependent. VI restricts their ability to contribute to their families and communities, access information, socialise, maintain their health, and earn. Barriers to eye care services include transport difficulties, costs of treatment, fear, lack of knowledge, waiting times, and health staff attitudes. Older people experience and fear the impacts of VI on their health and well-being. Eye health promotion and care services need strengthening and integration with the primary health care system to address the backlog and growing need among older people in an equitable way. Older people should be consulted about how to overcome the economic, social, and cultural barriers to access to eye care and to minimise the impact of VI. ABBREVIATIONS FGDs: focus group discussions; GBD: global burden of disease; NCDs: non-communicable diseases; VI: vision impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Holmes
- a Centre for International Health , Burnet Institute , Melbourne , Victoria , Australia
| | - R Shajehan
- b PALM Foundation , Nuwara Eliya , Sri Lanka
| | - S Kitnasamy
- b PALM Foundation , Nuwara Eliya , Sri Lanka
| | | | - Y Arsath
- c Berendina , Colombo , Sri Lanka
| | | | - S Inbaraj
- d Plantation Human Development Trust , Colombo , Sri Lanka
| | - G Jayakody
- e Central Province Health Department , Kandy , Sri Lanka
| | - K Durrant
- a Centre for International Health , Burnet Institute , Melbourne , Victoria , Australia
| | - S Luchters
- a Centre for International Health , Burnet Institute , Melbourne , Victoria , Australia.,f Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology , International Centre for Reproductive Health, Ghent University , Belgium.,g Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine , School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University , Victoria , Australia
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Gilbert C, Murthy GVS. The Sustainable Development Goals and Implications for Eye Health Research. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2016; 22:359-60. [PMID: 26653258 DOI: 10.3109/09286586.2015.1104365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Clare Gilbert
- a International Centre for Eye Health, Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , London , UK
| | - G V S Murthy
- a International Centre for Eye Health, Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , London , UK
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Tafida A, Kyari F, Abdull MM, Sivasubramaniam S, Murthy GVS, Kana I, Gilbert CE. Poverty and Blindness in Nigeria: Results from the National Survey of Blindness and Visual Impairment. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2016; 22:333-41. [PMID: 26395660 DOI: 10.3109/09286586.2015.1077259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Poverty can be a cause and consequence of blindness. Some causes only affect the poorest communities (e.g. trachoma), and poor individuals are less likely to access services. In low income countries, cataract blind adults have been shown to be less economically active, indicating that blindness can exacerbate poverty. This study aims to explore associations between poverty and blindness using national survey data from Nigeria. METHODS Participants ≥40 years were examined in 305 clusters (2005-2007). Sociodemographic information, including literacy and occupation, was obtained by interview. Presenting visual acuity (PVA) was assessed using a reduced tumbling E LogMAR chart. Full ocular examination was undertaken by experienced ophthalmologists on all with PVA <6/12 in either eye. Causes of vision loss were determined using World Health Organization guidelines. Households were categorized into three levels of poverty based on literacy and occupation at household level. RESULTS A total of 569/13,591 participants were blind (PVA <3/60, better eye; prevalence 4.2%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.8-4.6%). Prevalences of blindness were 8.5% (95% CI 7.7-9.5%), 2.5% (95% CI 2.0-3.1%), and 1.5% (95% CI 1.2-2.0%) in poorest, medium and affluent households, respectively (p = 0.001). Cause-specific prevalences of blindness from cataract, glaucoma, uncorrected aphakia and corneal opacities were significantly higher in poorer households. Cataract surgical coverage was low (37.2%), being lowest in females in poor households (25.3%). Spectacle coverage was 3 times lower in poor than affluent households (2.4% vs. 7.5%). CONCLUSION In Nigeria, blindness is associated with poverty, in part reflecting lower access to services. Reducing avoidable causes will not be achieved unless access to services improves, particularly for the poor and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Tafida
- a Department of Ophthalmology , Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital , Kano , Nigeria
| | - F Kyari
- b College of Health Sciences, University of Abuja , Nigeria
| | - M M Abdull
- c Ophthalmology Department , Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital , Bauchi , Nigeria
| | - S Sivasubramaniam
- d International Centre for Eye Health, Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , London , UK , and
| | - G V S Murthy
- d International Centre for Eye Health, Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , London , UK , and
| | - I Kana
- e Office of the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health , Abuja , Nigeria
| | - Clare E Gilbert
- d International Centre for Eye Health, Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , London , UK , and
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Habtamu E, Wondie T, Aweke S, Tadesse Z, Zerihun M, Mohammed A, Zewudie Z, Callahan K, Emerson PM, Bailey RL, Mabey DCW, Rajak SN, Kuper H, Polack S, Weiss HA, Burton MJ. Impact of Trichiasis Surgery on Quality of Life: A Longitudinal Study in Ethiopia. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004627. [PMID: 27078493 PMCID: PMC4831752 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2016] [Accepted: 03/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trachomatous trichiasis significantly reduces vision and health related quality of life (QoL). Although trichiasis surgery is widely performed to treat trichiasis, there is little data on the effect of surgery on QoL. We measured the impact of trichiasis surgery on vision and health related QoL in a longitudinal study from Amhara Region, Ethiopia. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We recruited 1000 adult participants with trichiasis (cases) and 200 comparison participants, matched to every fifth trichiasis case on age (+/- two years), sex and location. Vision-related quality of life (VRQoL) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were measured using the WHO/PBD-VF20 and WHOQOL-BREF questionnaires respectively, at enrolment and 12 months after enrolment. All trichiasis cases received free standard trichiasis surgery immediately after enrolment. The mean difference in QoL scores between enrolment and follow-up for cases and comparison participants, and the difference-in-differences by baseline trichiasis status was analysed using random effects linear regression, the later adjusted for age, sex and socioeconomic status. At 12-months follow-up, data was collected from 980 (98%) and 198 (98%) trichiasis cases and comparison participants respectively. At this follow-up visit, VRQoL and HRQoL scores of trichiasis cases improved substantially in all subscales and domains by 19.1-42.0 points (p<0.0001) and 4.7-17.2 points (p<0.0001), respectively. In contrast, among the comparison participants, there was no evidence of improvement in VRQoL and HRQoL domain scores during follow-up. The improvement in VRQoL and HRQoL in cases was independent of the presence of visual acuity improvement at 12 months. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Trichiasis surgery substantially improves both VRQoL and HRQoL regardless of visual acuity change. Unprecedented effort is needed to scale-up trichiasis surgical programmes not only to prevent the risk of sight loss but also to improve overall wellbeing and health perception of affected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmael Habtamu
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kelly Callahan
- The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Paul M. Emerson
- International Trachoma Initiative, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Robin L. Bailey
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - David C. W. Mabey
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Saul N. Rajak
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah Kuper
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Polack
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen A. Weiss
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew J. Burton
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Habtamu E, Wondie T, Aweke S, Tadesse Z, Zerihun M, Zewudie Z, Gebeyehu W, Callahan K, Emerson PM, Kuper H, Bailey RL, Mabey DCW, Rajak SN, Polack S, Weiss HA, Burton MJ. The Impact of Trachomatous Trichiasis on Quality of Life: A Case Control Study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015; 9:e0004254. [PMID: 26598937 PMCID: PMC4657886 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Trachomatous trichiasis is thought to have a profound effect on quality of life (QoL), however, there is little research in this area. We measured vision and health-related QoL in a case-control study in Amhara Region, Ethiopia. Methodology/Principal Findings We recruited 1000 adult trichiasis cases and 200 trichiasis-free controls, matched to every fifth trichiasis case on age (+/- two years), sex and location. Vision-related quality of life (VRQoL) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) were measured using the WHO/PBD-VF20 and WHOQOL-BREF questionnaires. Comparisons were made using linear regression adjusted for age, sex and socioeconomic status. Trichiasis cases had substantially lower VRQoL than controls on all subscales (overall eyesight, visual symptom, general functioning and psychosocial, p<0.0001), even in the sub-group with normal vision (p<0.0001). Lower VRQoL scores in cases were associated with longer trichiasis duration, central corneal opacity, visual impairment and poor contrast sensitivity. Trichiasis cases had lower HRQoL in all domains (Physical-health, Psychological, Social, Environment, p<0.0001), lower overall QoL (mean, 34.5 v 64.6; p<0.0001) and overall health satisfaction (mean, 38.2 v 71.7; p<0.0001). This association persisted in a sub-group analysis of cases and controls with normal vision. Not having a marriage partner (p<0.0001), visual impairment (p = 0.0068), daily labouring (p<0.0001), presence of other health problems (p = 0.0018) and low self-rated wealth (p<0.0001) were independently associated with lower overall QoL scores in cases. Among cases, trichiasis caused 596 (59%) to feel embarrassed, 913 (91.3%) to worry they may lose their remaining eyesight and 681 (68.1%) to have sleep disturbance. Conclusions/Significance Trachomatous trichiasis substantially reduces vision and health related QoL and is disabling, even without visual impairment. Prompt trichiasis intervention is needed both to prevent vision loss and to alleviate physical and psychological suffering, social exclusion and improve overall well-being. Implementation of the full SAFE strategy is needed to prevent the development of trachomatous trichiasis. There is clear evidence that visual impairment generally reduces quality of life. However, relatively little is known about the impact that trachomatous trichiasis (TT) has on the lives of affected people with and without the presence of visual impairment. We measured the impact of TT on vision and health-related quality of life in 1000 people with TT using standard WHO quantitative tools and compared these with 200 trichiasis-free controls, matched to every fifth trichiasis case on age, sex and location. We found TT cases had lower vision and health related quality of life than controls regardless of visual impairment and other health problems suggesting the burden of TT goes beyond visual loss. The results provide solid data for advocacy and encourage programme leaders and funders to secure resources to promote trichiasis intervention. Trichiasis causes considerable physical and psychosocial trauma including sleep disturbance, low self-esteem and possibly a less stable marriage regardless of visual impairment. These suggest that, timely treatment is needed not only to prevent visual loss but also alleviate physical and psychological suffering and social exclusion of TT patients, thereby improving their physical and psychological health, general functioning and social relations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmael Habtamu
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- The Carter Center, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- * E-mail:
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kelly Callahan
- The Carter Center, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Paul M. Emerson
- International Trachoma Initiative, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Hannah Kuper
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robin L. Bailey
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - David C. W. Mabey
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Saul N. Rajak
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Polack
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Helen A. Weiss
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew J. Burton
- International Centre for Eye Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Ramke J, Zwi AB, Palagyi A, Blignault I, Gilbert CE. Equity and Blindness: Closing Evidence Gaps to Support Universal Eye Health. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2015; 22:297-307. [DOI: 10.3109/09286586.2015.1077977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Farmer L, Innes-Wong C, Bergman-Hart C, Casson RJ, Crompton J. Visual Acuity, Quality of Life and Visual Function Outcomes after Cataract Surgery in Bali. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2015. [DOI: 10.3109/09286586.2015.1008104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Kajla G, Rohatgi J, Dhaliwal U. Use of subjective and objective criteria to categorise visual disability. Indian J Ophthalmol 2014; 62:400-6. [PMID: 24817743 PMCID: PMC4064212 DOI: 10.4103/0301-4738.121146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Visual disability is categorised using objective criteria. Subjective measures are not considered. AIM To use subjective criteria along with objective ones to categorise visual disability. SETTINGS AND DESIGN Ophthalmology out-patient department; teaching hospital; observational study. MATERIAL AND METHODS Consecutive persons aged >25 years, with vision <20/20 (in one or both eyes) due to chronic conditions, like cataract and refractive errors, were categorized into 11 groups of increasing disability; group-zero: normal range of vision, to group-X: no perception of light, bilaterally. Snellen's vision; binocular contrast sensitivity (Pelli-Robson chart); automated binocular visual field (Humphrey; Esterman test); and vision-related quality of life (Indian Visual Function Questionnaire-33; IND-VFQ33) were recorded. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS SPSS version-17; Kruskal-wallis test was used to compare contrast sensitivity and visual fields across groups, and Mann-Whitney U test for pair-wise comparison (Bonferroni adjustment; P < 0.01). One-way ANOVA compared quality of life data across groups; for pairwise significance, Dunnett T3 test was applied. RESULTS In 226 patients, contrast sensitivity and visual fields were comparable for differing disability grades except when disability was severe (P < 0.001), or moderately severe (P < 0.01). Individual scales of IND-VFQ33 were also mostly comparable; however, global scores showed a distinct pattern, being different for some disability grades but comparable for groups III (78.51 ± 6.86) and IV (82.64 ± 5.80), and groups IV and V (77.23 ± 3.22); these were merged to generate group 345; similarly, global scores were comparable for adjacent groups V and VI (72.53 ± 6.77), VI and VII (74.46 ± 4.32), and VII and VIII (69.12 ± 5.97); these were merged to generate group 5678; thereafter, contrast sensitivity and global and individual IND-VFQ33 scores could differentiate between different grades of disability in the five new groups. CONCLUSIONS Subjective criteria made it possible to objectively reclassify visual disability. Visual disability grades could be redefined to accommodate all from zero-100%.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Upreet Dhaliwal
- Department of Ophthalmology, University College of Medical Sciences and GTB Hospital, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
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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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Griffiths UK, Bozzani FM, Gheorghe A, Mwenge L, Gilbert C. Cost-effectiveness of eye care services in Zambia. COST EFFECTIVENESS AND RESOURCE ALLOCATION 2014; 12:6. [PMID: 24568593 PMCID: PMC3944959 DOI: 10.1186/1478-7547-12-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2013] [Accepted: 02/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To estimate the cost-effectiveness of cataract surgery and refractive error/presbyopia correction in Zambia. Methods Primary data on costs and health related quality of life were collected in a prospective cohort study of 170 cataract and 113 refractive error/presbyopia patients recruited from three health facilities. Six months later, follow-up data were available from 77 and 41 patients who had received cataract surgery and spectacles, respectively. Costs were determined from patient interviews and micro-costing at the three health facilities. Utility values were gathered by administering the EQ-5D quality of life instrument immediately before and six months after cataract surgery or acquiring spectacles. A probabilistic state-transition model was used to generate cost-effectiveness estimates with uncertainty ranges. Results Utility values significantly improved across the patient sample after cataract surgery and acquiring spectacles. Incremental costs per Quality Adjusted Life Years gained were US$ 259 for cataract surgery and US$ 375 for refractive error correction. The probabilities of the incremental cost-effectiveness ratios being below the Zambian gross national income per capita were 95% for both cataract surgery and refractive error correction. Conclusion In spite of proven cost-effectiveness, severe health system constraints are likely to hamper scaling up of the interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulla K Griffiths
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, 15-17 Tavistock Place, London WC1H 9SH, UK.
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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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Abstract
In September 2000, world leaders made a commitment to build a more equitable, prosperous and safer world by 2015 and launched the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). In the previous year, the World Health Organization and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness in partnership launched the global initiative to eliminate avoidable blindness by the year 2020–VISION 2020 the Right to Sight. It has focused on the prevention of a disability-blindness and recognized a health issue–sight as a human right. Both global initiatives have made considerable progress with synergy especially on MDG 1–the reduction of poverty and the reduction in numbers of the blind. A review of the MDGs has identified the need to address disparities within and between countries, quality, and disability. Noncommunicable diseases are emerging as a challenge to the MDGs and Vision 2020:0 the Right to Sight. For the future, up to and beyond 2015, there will be need for both initiatives to continue to work in synergy to address present and emerging challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah B Faal
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
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Dean WH, Sherwin JC, Kumwenda S, Angeletti M, Wiehler U. Willingness to Pay for Cataract Surgery in Post-operative Cataract Patients in Rural Malawi. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2012; 19:265-71. [DOI: 10.3109/09286586.2012.708085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Finger RP, Kupitz DG, Fenwick E, Balasubramaniam B, Ramani RV, Holz FG, Gilbert CE. The impact of successful cataract surgery on quality of life, household income and social status in South India. PLoS One 2012; 7:e44268. [PMID: 22952945 PMCID: PMC3432104 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0044268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2012] [Accepted: 07/31/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To explore the hypothesis that sight restoring cataract surgery provided to impoverished rural communities will improve not only visual acuity and vision-related quality of life (VRQoL) but also poverty and social status. Methods Participants were recruited at outreach camps in Tamil Nadu, South India, and underwent free routine manual small incision cataract surgery (SICS) with intra-ocular lens (IOL) implantation, and were followed up one year later. Poverty was measured as monthly household income, being engaged in income generating activities and number of working household members. Social status was measured as rates of re-marriage amongst widowed participants. VRQoL was measured using the IND-VFQ-33. Associations were explored using logistic regression (SPSS 19). Results Of the 294 participants, mean age ± standard deviation (SD) 60±8 years, 54% men, only 11% remained vision impaired at follow up (67% at baseline; p<0.001). At one year, more participants were engaged in income generating activities (44.7% to 77.7%; p<0.001) and the proportion of households with a monthly income <1000 Rps. decreased from 50.5% to 20.5% (p<0.05). Overall VRQoL improved (p<0.001). Participants who had successful cataract surgery were less likely to remain in the lower categories of monthly household income (OR 0.05–0.22; p<0.02) and more likely to be engaged in income earning activities one year after surgery (OR 3.28; p = 0.006). Participants widowed at baseline who had successful cataract surgery were less likely to remain widowed at one year (OR 0.02; p = 0.008). Conclusion These findings indicate the broad positive impact of sight restoring cataract surgery on the recipients’ as well as their families’ lives. Providing free high quality cataract surgery to marginalized rural communities will not only alleviate avoidable blindness but also - to some extent - poverty in the long run.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert P Finger
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
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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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