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Salama B, Parrey MUR, Abdul-Latif MM, Alanazi HM, Alanazi SR. The Prevalence of Severe Visual Impairment and Blindness Among Primary School Children in Arar, Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2023; 15:e47833. [PMID: 38022177 PMCID: PMC10676765 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.47833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Childhood visual impairment has a major impact on the growth and development of children at all levels. The affected children are likely to experience psychological issues and less successful social integration. Besides healthcare providers, researchers, teachers, and parents can play a vital role in reducing the burden of this global health issue. Methodology This cross-sectional study was conducted among children attending all primary schools in Arar to measure the prevalence of severe visual impairment and blindness. The uncorrected and best-corrected visual acuity was assessed and the prevalence of visual impairment was determined in line with the WHO guidelines. Results A total of 781 Saudi children aged between six and 12 years participated in this study. These included 403 (51.6%) females and 378 (48.4%) males. The prevalence of severe visual impairment and blindness according to WHO classification was found in 14 and seven children, respectively. Conclusions The prevalence of severe visual impairment and blindness in primary school children in Arar is high. The burden of visual impairment can be reduced by improving the approach toward early screenings and timely addressing the factors associated with such visual impairment in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basem Salama
- Community Medicine, Northern Border University, Arar, SAU
| | | | | | | | - Saja R Alanazi
- College of Medicine, Northern Border University, Arar, SAU
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Kobia‐Acquah E, Flitcroft DI, Akowuah PK, Lingham G, Loughman J. Regional variations and temporal trends of childhood myopia prevalence in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2022; 42:1232-1252. [PMID: 35959749 PMCID: PMC9804554 DOI: 10.1111/opo.13035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To provide contemporary and future estimates of childhood myopia prevalence in Africa. METHODS A systematic online literature search was conducted for articles on childhood (≤18 years) myopia (spherical equivalent [SE] ≤ -0.50D; high myopia: SE ≤ -6.00D) in Africa. Population- or school-based cross-sectional studies published from 1 Jan 2000 to 30 May 2021 were included. Meta-analysis using Freeman-Tukey double arcsine transformation was performed to estimate the prevalence of childhood myopia and high myopia. Myopia prevalence from subgroup analyses for age groups and settings were used as baseline for generating a prediction model using linear regression. RESULTS Forty-two studies from 19 (of 54) African countries were included in the meta-analysis (N = 737,859). Overall prevalence of childhood myopia and high myopia were 4.7% (95% CI: 3.3%-6.5%) and 0.6% (95% CI: 0.2%-1.1%), respectively. Estimated prevalence across the African regions was highest in the North (6.8% [95% CI: 4.0%-10.2%]), followed by Southern (6.3% [95% CI: 3.9%-9.1%]), East (4.7% [95% CI: 3.1%-6.7%]) and West (3.5% [95% CI: 1.9%-6.3%]) Africa. Prevalence from 2011 to 2021 was approximately double that from 2000 to 2010 for all studies combined, and between 1.5 and 2.5 times higher for ages 5-11 and 12-18 years, for boys and girls and for urban and rural settings, separately. Childhood myopia prevalence is projected to increase in urban settings and older children to 11.1% and 10.8% by 2030, 14.4% and 14.1% by 2040 and 17.7% and 17.4% by 2050, respectively; marginally higher than projected in the overall population (16.4% by 2050). CONCLUSIONS Childhood myopia prevalence has approximately doubled since 2010, with a further threefold increase predicted by 2050. Given this trajectory and the specific public health challenges in Africa, it is imperative to implement basic myopia prevention programmes, enhance spectacle coverage and ophthalmic services and generate more data to understand the changing myopia epidemiology to mitigate the expanding risk of the African population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Kobia‐Acquah
- Centre for Eye Research Ireland, School of Physics, Clinical and Optometric Sciences, College of Sciences and HealthTechnological University DublinDublinIreland
| | - Daniel Ian Flitcroft
- Centre for Eye Research Ireland, School of Physics, Clinical and Optometric Sciences, College of Sciences and HealthTechnological University DublinDublinIreland
| | | | - Gareth Lingham
- Centre for Eye Research Ireland, School of Physics, Clinical and Optometric Sciences, College of Sciences and HealthTechnological University DublinDublinIreland
| | - James Loughman
- Centre for Eye Research Ireland, School of Physics, Clinical and Optometric Sciences, College of Sciences and HealthTechnological University DublinDublinIreland
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Cao H, Cao X, Cao Z, Zhang L, Han Y, Guo C. The prevalence and causes of pediatric uncorrected refractive error: Pooled data from population studies for Global Burden of Disease (GBD) sub-regions. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0268800. [PMID: 35776717 PMCID: PMC9249246 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0268800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are limited systematic reviews on the prevalence of uncorrected refractive errors in children. We aimed to summarize the prevalence and causes of pediatric uncorrected refractive error (URE) from studies in the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) sub-regions. METHODS The pooled analysis used the individual participant data (ages less than 20 years old) from population-based studies around the world by regions. URE was defined as presenting VA < 6/18 and improving to ≥ 6/18 or ≥1 line on using a pinhole in either eye, with main causes of myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism. Each study provided data on any URE, myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism by age, gender, and ethnicity. Prevalence rates were directly age and gender standardized to the 2020 world population with all age groups. Estimates were calculated by study and sub-regions after pooling. Summary estimates included studies in which URE was assessed from a pinhole-corrected refraction in the better eye. RESULTS The combined pooled data contained 302,513,219 patients including 8 963 URE cases individuals from 57 studies. Prevalence varied by age and GBD sub-regions and differed by gender. The age- and region-standardized prevalence of URE was 3.41 per 1000 (CI, 1.53~7.62) in Western Pacific region (12 studies), 2.26 per 1000 (CI, 0.85~6.01) in South-East Asia region (14 studies), 5.85 per 1000 (CI, 3.75~9.13) in Americans (11 studies) and 4.40 per 1000 (CI, 3.0~6.45) in Eastern Mediterranean region (13 studies). On the basis of these data, myopia was the first-leading cause in female children with 12~17 age group, with the prevalence rate 18.2 per 1000 (CI, 11.52~23.61). Astigmatism was detected in 27.2 per 1000 male children with 6~11 age group (CI: 19.12-30.68). CONCLUSIONS Prevalence of URE available data within these sub-regions are widely disparate. Myopia and astigmatism in young age children continue as the leading cause of URE worldwide. Providing appropriate refractive correction to those individuals whose vision can be improved is an important public health endeavor with implications for safety and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Cao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shenzhen People’s Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiang Cao
- Emergency Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jiamusi University, Heilongjiang Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhi Cao
- VPL Department, Mentor Graphics Technology (Shenzhen) CO. LTD., Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, No. 4 Hospital of Xi’an City, Xi’an, Shanxi Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yue Han
- Nangang Branch, The Second Hospital of Heilong jiang Province, Harbin City, Heilongjiang Province, People’s Republic of China
| | - Changchun Guo
- Pingshan District People’s Hospital of Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, People’s Republic of China
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Hu B, Liu Z, Zhao J, Zeng L, Hao G, Shui D, Mao K. The Global Prevalence of Amblyopia in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:819998. [PMID: 35601430 PMCID: PMC9114436 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.819998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological data about the prevalence of amblyopia around the world vary widely among regions and periods. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the global prevalence of amblyopia in children. PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for prevalence studies published up to 5 November 2021. The outcome was the prevalence of amblyopia, analyzed as pooled estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CI). A total of 97 studies were included, including 4,645,274 children and 7,706 patients with amblyopia. The overall worldwide pooled prevalence of amblyopia was 1.36% (95%CI: 1.27-1.46%). The prevalence of amblyopia was higher in males (1.40%, 95%CI: 1.10-1.70%) than in females (1.24%, 95%CI: 0.94-1.54%) (OR = 0.885, 95%CI: 0.795-0.985, P = 0.025). The results of the meta-regression analysis showed that there were no significant associations between the prevalence of amblyopia and geographical area, publication year, age, sample size, and whether it was carried out in a developed or developing country (all P > 0.05). Begg's test (P = 0.065) and Egger's test (P < 0.001) showed that there was a significant publication bias in the prevalence of amblyopia. In conclusion, amblyopia is a significant vision problem worldwide, and public health strategies of early screening, treatment, and management are important.
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Systematic review and meta-analysis of myopia prevalence in African school children. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263335. [PMID: 35113922 PMCID: PMC8812871 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Increased prevalence of myopia is a major public health challenge worldwide, including in Africa. While previous studies have shown an increasing prevalence in Africa, there is no collective review of evidence on the magnitude of myopia in African school children. Hence, this study reviews the evidence and provides a meta-analysis of the prevalence of myopia in African school children. Methods This review was conducted using the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Five computerized bibliographic databases, PUBMED, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and Africa Index Medicus were searched for published studies on the prevalence of myopia in Africa from 1 January 2000 to 18 August 2021. Studies were assessed for methodological quality. Data were gathered by gender, age and refraction technique and standardized to the definition of myopia as refractive error ≥ 0.50 diopter. A meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the prevalence. Significant heterogeneity was detected among the various studies (I2 >50%), hence a random effect model was used, and sensitivity analysis was performed to examine the effects of outliers. Results We included data from 24 quality assessed studies, covering 36,395 African children. The overall crude prevalence of myopia over the last two decades is 4.7% (95% CI, 3.9–5.7) in African children. Although the prevalence of myopia was slightly higher in females (5.3%, 95%CI: 4.1, 6.5) than in males (3.7%, 95% CI, 2.6–4.7; p = 0.297) and higher in older [12–18 years 5.1% (95% CI, 3.8–6.3) than younger children (aged 5–11 years, 3.4%, 95% CI, 2.5–4.4; p = 0.091), the differences were not significant. There was a significantly lower prevalence of myopia with cycloplegic compared with non-cycloplegic refraction [4.2%, 95%CI: 3.3, 5.1 versus 6.4%, 95%CI: 4.4, 8.4; p = 0.046]. Conclusions Our results showed that myopia affects about one in twenty African schoolchildren, and it is overestimated in non-cycloplegic refraction. Clinical interventions to reduce the prevalence of myopia in the region should target females, and school children who are aged 12–18 years.
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Danemayer J, Boggs D, Delgado Ramos V, Smith E, Kular A, Bhot W, Ramos-Barajas F, Polack S, Holloway C. Estimating need and coverage for five priority assistive products: a systematic review of global population-based research. BMJ Glob Health 2022; 7:bmjgh-2021-007662. [PMID: 35101862 PMCID: PMC8804659 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-007662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To improve access to assistive products (APs) globally, data must be available to inform evidence-based decision-making, policy development and evaluation, and market-shaping interventions. METHODS This systematic review was undertaken to identify studies presenting population-based estimates of need and coverage for five APs (hearing aids, limb prostheses, wheelchairs, glasses and personal digital assistants) grouped by four functional domains (hearing, mobility, vision and cognition). RESULTS Data including 656 AP access indicators were extracted from 207 studies, most of which (n=199, 96%) were cross-sectional, either collecting primary (n=167) or using secondary (n=32) data. There was considerable heterogeneity in assessment approaches used and how AP indicators were reported; over half (n=110) used a combination of clinical and self-reported assessment data. Of 35 studies reporting AP use out of all people with functional difficulty in the corresponding functional domains, the proportions ranged from 4.5% to 47.0% for hearing aids, from 0.9% to 17.6% for mobility devices, and from 0.1% to 86.6% for near and distance glasses. Studies reporting AP need indicators demonstrated >60% unmet need for each of the five APs in most settings. CONCLUSION Variation in definitions of indicators of AP access have likely led to overestimates/underestimates of need and coverage, particularly, where the relationship between functioning difficulty and the need for an AP is complex. This review demonstrates high unmet need for APs globally, due in part to disparate data across this sector, and emphasises the need to standardise AP data collection and reporting strategies to provide a comparable evidence base to improve access to APs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Danemayer
- Department of Computer Science, Global Disability Innovation Hub, University College London, London, UK
| | - Dorothy Boggs
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Emma Smith
- Department of Psychology, Assisted Living and Learning Institute, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Ariana Kular
- Department of Health Sciences, Mental Health and Wellbeing, University of Warwick, Warwick, UK
| | - William Bhot
- Department of Computer Science, Global Disability Innovation Hub, University College London, London, UK
| | - Felipe Ramos-Barajas
- Department of Computer Science, Global Disability Innovation Hub, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Polack
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Cathy Holloway
- Department of Computer Science, Global Disability Innovation Hub, University College London, London, UK
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MacKenzie GE, Morgan IG, Baraas RC, Little JA, Congdon N, Chan VF, Moore B, Bundy D. Recognizing Eye Health as an Integral Part of Children's School Health Throughout the World. Asia Pac J Ophthalmol (Phila) 2022; 11:3-5. [PMID: 35044338 DOI: 10.1097/apo.0000000000000455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Graeme E MacKenzie
- Riemann Limited, London, United Kingdom
- Clearly Initiatives, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ian G Morgan
- Research School of Biology, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Rigmor C Baraas
- National Centre for Optics, Vision and Eye Care, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Norway
| | - Julie-Anne Little
- Centre for Optometry and Vision Science, Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Ulster University, Coleraine, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Nathan Congdon
- Ulverscroft Chair for Global Eye Health, Department School of Medicine, Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
- Orbis International, Lenexa, Kansas, US
| | - Ving Fai Chan
- School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Science, Centre for Public Health, Royal Victoria Hospital, United Kingdom
- School of Optometry, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Bruce Moore
- New England College of Optometry, Boston, Massachusetts, US
| | - Donald Bundy
- Global Research Consortium for School Health and Nutrition, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
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Tajbakhsh Z, Talebnejad MR, Khalili MR, Masoumpour MS, Mahdaviazad H, Mohammadi E, Keshtkar M, Nowroozzadeh MH. The prevalence of refractive error in schoolchildren. Clin Exp Optom 2022; 105:860-864. [PMID: 34982953 DOI: 10.1080/08164622.2021.2003687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
CLINICAL RELEVANCE Information on the refractive error prevalence in school-aged children will result in delivering the optimal eye health service to this group. BACKGROUND Understanding the prevalence of refractive error in school-aged children is crucial to reduce the consequences of uncorrected refractive error. This study aims to investigate the prevalence of refractive error among school-aged children in Shiraz, Iran. METHODS In this cross-sectional population-based study, 2001 schoolchildren aged 6-12 years participated. All participants underwent cycloplegic refraction. Spherical equivalent (SE) of -0.50 dioptre or more was considered as myopia, SE of +2.00 dioptre or more as hyperopia, and astigmatism as cylinder power of 0.75 dioptre or more. The difference of 1.00 dioptre or more between two eyes defined as anisometropia. RESULTS The prevalence of myopia was 11.6% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 10.2-13.1%), hyperopia 6.7% (95%CI: 5.6-7.9%), and astigmatism 28.9% (95%CI: 26.9-31.0%), out of which 82.1% had with the rule astigmatism. Anisometropia was detected in 4.0% (95%CI: 3.2-5.0%) of children. Astigmatism and anisometropia were significantly higher in boys (p < 0.001, p = 0.03 respectively). The SE decreased significantly with increasing age (p < 0.001) indicating an increase in myopia with age. In addition, the rate of myopic astigmatism increased with age (p < 0.001). Among studied schoolchildren 97.0% could achieve the best-corrected visual acuity of 6/6 and 3.0% could not in the better eye. CONCLUSION Astigmatism was the most common refractive error among primary school children. The prevalence of myopia was relatively higher than other studies conducted in Iran, and it increased with age. These results may highlight the role of lifestyle changes and increased near work activities on the myopic shift in school-aged children. The findings provide information for screening programmes in school-aged children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Tajbakhsh
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mohammad Reza Talebnejad
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Khalili
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Sadat Masoumpour
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Hamideh Mahdaviazad
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Department of Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Elham Mohammadi
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maryam Keshtkar
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Nowroozzadeh
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Yekta A, Hooshmand E, Saatchi M, Ostadimoghaddam H, Asharlous A, Taheri A, Khabazkhoob M. Global Prevalence and Causes of Visual Impairment and Blindness in Children: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Curr Ophthalmol 2022; 34:1-15. [PMID: 35620376 PMCID: PMC9128433 DOI: 10.4103/joco.joco_135_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: To determine the global prevalence and common causes of visual impairment (VI) and blindness in children. Methods: In this meta-analysis, a structured search strategy was applied to search electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, as well as the list of references in the selected articles to identify all population-based cross-sectional studies that concerned the prevalence of VI and blindness in populations under 20 years of age up to January 2018, regardless of the publication date and language, gender, region of residence, or race. VI was reported based on presenting visual acuity (PVA), uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of equal to 20/60 or worse in the better eye. Blindness was reported as visual acuity worse than 20/400 in the better eye. Results: In the present study, 5711 articles were identified, and the final analyses were done on 80 articles including 769,720 people from twenty-eight different countries. The prevalence of VI based on UCVA was 7.26% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.34%–10.19%), PVA was 3.82% (95% CI: 2.06%–5.57%), BCVA was 1.67% (95% CI 0.97%–2.37%), and blindness was 0.17% (95% CI: 0.13%–0.21%). Refractive errors were the most common cause of VI in the subjects of selected articles (77.20% [95% CI: 73.40%–81.00%]). The prevalence of amblyopia was 7.60% (95% CI: 05.60%–09.10%) and congenital cataract was 0.60% (95% CI: 0.3%–0.9%). Conclusion: Despite differences in the definition of VI and blindness, based on PVA, 3.82%, and based on BCVA, 1.67% of the examined samples suffer from VI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbasali Yekta
- Department of Optometry, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Elham Hooshmand
- Iranian Research Center on Aging, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Saatchi
- Health in Emergency and Disaster Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hadi Ostadimoghaddam
- Refractive Errors Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir Asharlous
- Rehabilitation Research Center, Department of Optometry, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azadeh Taheri
- Noor Research Center for Ophthalmic Epidemiology, Noor Eye Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khabazkhoob
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Nawaysir S, Al Saeedan AM, AlMusa S, Albalawi A, Khandekar R. Comparison of Outcomes of Vision and Eye Screening of Children of Four Orphanages and School Children of Riyadh. Middle East Afr J Ophthalmol 2020; 27:172-176. [PMID: 33488014 PMCID: PMC7813143 DOI: 10.4103/meajo.meajo_241_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE: The purpose was to compare vision and ocular disease among orphans to age-matched school children and determine the barriers they faced for ophthalmic care in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: Children of four orphanages of Riyadh (Gr1) were screened for vision refractive error (RE) and eye ailment on “World Sight Day–2019.” They were compared to age-matched school children (comparison group; Gr2). The rates of RE, strabismus, amblyopia, and allergic conjunctivitis were estimated in two groups. The coverage of existing eye services for orphan children was reviewed. RESULTS: We screened 53 children of Gr1 and 106 school children of Gr2. The risk of RE was statistically significantly higher in school children compared to orphan children (odds ratio [OR] = 2.4 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.2; 4.8] P = 0.01). The coverage of refractive services for Gr1 was significantly lower than for Gr2 (OR = 0.09 [95% CI 0.02; 0.4] P = 0.001). In Gr1, blurry vision (12 children), red eye (2), and itchy eyes (1) were the main symptoms. In Gr2, no child had eye complaints. In Gr1, amblyopia (1), strabismus (1), history of ocular trauma and surgery (1), eye medications needed (2), and systemic health problems were noted in 9 children. In Gr2, amblyopia (4), strabismus (4), and history of ocular surgery were noted in 2 children. CONCLUSION: Orphan children had less rate of myopia compared to school children. However, unattended ocular pathologies were detected during the screening campaign. The coverage of refractive services was low in these underprivileged children compared to school children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Nawaysir
- Department of Research, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz M Al Saeedan
- Department of Health Education, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Suha AlMusa
- Department of Health Education, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arwa Albalawi
- Department of Research, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rajiv Khandekar
- Department of Research, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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11
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Magakwe TS, Xulu-Kasaba ZN, Hansraj R. Visual impairment and refractive error amongst school-going children aged 6–18 years in Sekhukhune District (Limpopo, South Africa). AFRICAN VISION AND EYE HEALTH 2020. [DOI: 10.4102/aveh.v79i1.551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Refractive error (RE) and visual impairment (VI) remain major problems affecting school-going children worldwide.Aim: To determine the prevalence and distribution of VI and RE in school-going children aged 6–18 years.Setting: The study was conducted in Sekhukhune District, Limpopo, South Africa.Methods: A multistage random sampling method was used to select school-going children aged 6–18 years from Grades 1 to 12. A total of 326 learners went through eye examinations, which included visual acuity (VA) measurement using a logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution chart, autorefraction under cycloplegia and ocular health assessment.Results: The prevalence of uncorrected, presenting and best-corrected VA of 0.30 M or worse in the better eye was 12.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 8.70–15.80), 12.3% (95% CI, 8.70–15.80) and 2.1% (95% CI, 0.60–3.70), respectively. Refractive error accounted for 80% (95% CI, 67.6–92.4) of all causes of VI. Myopia was the most prevalent RE (50.7%; 95% CI, 38.8–62.7), followed by astigmatism (36%; 95% CI, 24.3–47.3) and hypermetropia (13.6%; 95% CI, 5.30–21.6). There was no significant difference in the prevalence of RE and VI between males (50.7%; 95% CI, 38.8–62.7) and females (49.3%; 95% CI, 37.3–61.2). Refractive error and VI were higher amongst children aged 14–18 years: 56.7% (95% CI, 44.9–68.6) and 60% (95% CI, 44.8–75.20), respectively.Conclusion: The prevalence of RE and VI amongst school-going children in Sekhukhune District was high, highlighting the need for school visual screening and strategies to address these conditions in that area.
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Visual Impairment among Primary School Children in Gondar Town, Northwest Ethiopia. J Ophthalmol 2020; 2020:6934013. [PMID: 32908684 PMCID: PMC7463391 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6934013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background An impairment of the visual system at or shortly after birth adversely affects educational performance of children which typically occurs through vision. Limited evidence on the magnitude and causes of visual impairment is one of the reasons for the low priority given to eye care in low-income countries. Objectives To estimate the prevalence and determine the causes of visual impairment in primary school children in Gondar town, Northwest Ethiopia. Materials and Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 1289 children aged 5–15 years who were randomly selected in 9 primary schools (government and private) from May to June 2016. Visual acuity was measured at 6 m using Snellen's chart, and children with an acuity of less than 6/18 in the better eye underwent refraction and a detailed eye examination. A cause of their impairment was determined. Data were recorded using pretested tools. . Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 16 was used to enter and analyze the data using 95% confidence intervals. Results The prevalence of visual impairment was 1.8%. Refractive errors (nearly 70%) followed by strabismus and cataract, each contributing 4.3%, were the most frequent causes of visual impairment in the study population. Majority (87%) of the children had moderate degree of vision impairment, and 10–15-year age groups are the more affected ones. Children of age fifteen and above showed statistically significant association with visual impairment (p=0.005). Conclusion The magnitude of visual impairment in primary school children in the study area is significant. School screening programme is recommended to minimize the burden of visual impairment in the study area.
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Elsabagh HM, El-seht RM. Screening of refractive error among primary school students at Tanta City Gharbia governorate Egypt. How serious is the problem? CLINICAL EPIDEMIOLOGY AND GLOBAL HEALTH 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cegh.2020.02.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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The Prevalence of Ptosis and Nystagmus in Rural Population. J Curr Ophthalmol 2020; 32:178-182. [PMID: 32671302 PMCID: PMC7337018 DOI: 10.1016/j.joco.2018.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 11/15/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the prevalence of ptosis and nystagmus in the general rural population in Iran. Methods Two villages were selected from the north and southwest of Iran using a multi-stage cluster sampling approach. After selection of the participants and inviting them to a complete eye exam, they all had vision tests and an ophthalmic examination. Vision tests included measurement of visual acuity, refraction, and the cover test. Then the slit-lamp exam was performed, and the diagnosis of ptosis and nystagmus was determined by an ophthalmologist. Results Of the 3851 invitees, 3314 people participated in the study. The prevalence of ptosis in this study was 2.23% [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.73-2.74], and 45.3% of the cases were bilateral ptosis. The prevalence of ptosis was lowest in the 21-30 year (0.2%) and the under 5 year (0.8%) age groups, and the highest prevalence was observed in people over 70 years of age (6.7%) (P < 0.001). The prevalence of ptosis was higher in illiterate people than those with an academic education level (P = 0.012). The prevalence of astigmatism was 62.8% in those with ptosis and 34.2% in those without ptosis (P < 0.001). The prevalence of nystagmus was 0.39% (13 cases). Conclusions This study found that the prevalence of ptosis is relatively high in the general rural population in Iran, and the prevalence increases with age. Astigmatism is significantly high among cases with ptosis, and its prevalence has an inverse relation with the level of education. Nystagmus also had a high prevalence in this population.
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Khoshhal F, Hashemi H, Hooshmand E, Saatchi M, Yekta A, Aghamirsalim M, Ostadimoghaddam H, Khabazkhoob M. The prevalence of refractive errors in the Middle East: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int Ophthalmol 2020; 40:1571-1586. [PMID: 32107693 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-020-01316-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of refractive errors in the Middle East region. METHODS In this meta-analysis, a structured strategy was applied to search databases PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar, databases as well as the reference lists of the selected articles to identify cross-sectional studies assessing the prevalence of refractive errors in the Middle East region until September 2019. The outcome measure was the prevalence of refractive errors, including myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, in two age groups of ≤ 15 years and > 15 years. The study results were combined using a random effects model at a confidence level of 95%. RESULTS The prevalence of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism was 4% (95% CI 4, 5), 8% (95% CI 6, 10), and 15% (95% CI 10, 19) in people less than or equal to 15 years and 30% (95% CI 25, 34), 21% (95% CI 15, 28), and 24% (95% CI 16, 31) in subjects over 15 years, respectively. The prevalence of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism was 3.5%, 12.4%, and 9.0% in male and 4.2%, 13.1%, and 9.9% in female subjects aged ≤ 15 years, respectively. In subjects aged > 15 years, the prevalence was 31.7%, 14.5%, and 31.5% in males and 31.9%, 11.2%, and 31% in females, respectively. CONCLUSION The prevalence of hyperopia is relatively high in Middle Eastern children, while the prevalence of myopia is higher in adults in this region. It seems that astigmatism is not a serious refractive problem in this region compared to the rest of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahimeh Khoshhal
- Department of Pediatrics, Dezful University of Medical Sciences, Dezful, Iran
| | - Hassan Hashemi
- Noor Research Center for Ophthalmic Epidemiology, Noor Eye Hospital, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Elham Hooshmand
- Iranian Research Center on Aging, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Saatchi
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbasali Yekta
- Department of Optometry, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Hadi Ostadimoghaddam
- Refractive Errors Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khabazkhoob
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Prevalence of childhood ocular morbidity in a peri-urban setting in Bangladesh: a community-based study. Public Health 2019; 170:103-112. [DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2019.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Alsaqr A, Abu Sharha A, Fagehi R, Almutairi A, Alosaimi S, Almalki A, Alluwaymi A. The visual status of adolescents in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: a population study. Clin Ophthalmol 2018; 12:965-972. [PMID: 29872255 PMCID: PMC5973314 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s162319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The visual status of adolescents in Saudi Arabia (SA) has not been well reported. To date, the prevalence and types of refractive errors (REs), amblyopia, strabismus, and correctable visual impairments have not been quantified. The aim of the study was to investigate the visual status in adolescents in Riyadh, SA. Methods This study was based on a population cross-sectional and random cluster design. After design and the sample calculations, 1,007 participants, 12–20 years of age, were screened during the study. Nine participants were excluded due to ocular disorders. The participants were assessed for REs, distance visual acuity logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution, contrast sensitivity, stereoacuity, pinhole test findings, and cover–uncover test findings. Results The results showed that 55.5% of the participants had some form of REs, while correctable visual impairment was found in one-fifth of the screened participants. Myopia was the dominant type (53.3%, ranged from −0.50 DS to −14.00 DS), whereas hyperopia was found in 2.2% (+2.00 DS to +5.50 DS) and astigmatism was present in 15% (−0.75 DC to −5.25 DC). Only 43% of the participants had corrected REs; however, the noncompliance for spectacle use was 20.25%. Conclusion This study was the first attempt to investigate the visual status in adolescents in SA. It provided estimations of the REs, amblyopia, and strabismus. The high prevalence of REs emphasizes the need to identify the best proactive strategies to detect and manage REs to reduce the incidence of visual impairment in SA. Increasing awareness about eye health and employing efficient screening programs could help to address the need for REs corrections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Alsaqr
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Abu Sharha
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raied Fagehi
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Awatif Almutairi
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah Alosaimi
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman Almalki
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulaziz Alluwaymi
- Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Hashemi H, Khabazkhoob M, Saatchi M, Ostadimoghaddam H, Yekta A. Visual impairment and blindness in a population-based study of Mashhad, Iran. J Curr Ophthalmol 2017; 30:161-168. [PMID: 29988920 PMCID: PMC6033729 DOI: 10.1016/j.joco.2017.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2016] [Revised: 01/14/2017] [Accepted: 01/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the prevalence of visual impairment and blindness and related factors in the 1- to 90-year-old urban population of Mashhad. Methods In this cross-sectional study of 1- to 90-year-old residents of Mashhad, in northeastern Iran, sampling was done through random stratified cluster sampling (120 clusters). After selecting the samples and their participation in the study, all subjects had vision testing including measurement of visual acuity and refraction, as well as examinations with the slit-lamp and ophthalmoscopy. Visual impairment (primary outcomes) was defined as a visual acuity worse than of 0.5 logMAR (20/60) in the better eye. Results Of the 4453 selected persons, 3132 (70.4%) participated in the study. The prevalence of visual impairment based on presenting vision and best-corrected vision was 3.95% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.13–4.77) and 2.23 (95% CI: 1.54–2.91), respectively. The prevalence of presenting visual impairment increased from 1.59% in children under 5 years of age to 43.59% in people older than 65 years of age; these figures were respectively 1.59% and 42.31% based on corrected visual acuity. In the logistic regression model, older age (OR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.04–1.07, P < 0.001), higher education (OR = 0.16, 95% CI: 0.06–0.38, P < 0.001), and low income (OR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.21–1.72, P < 0.001) correlated with impaired sight. Based on presenting vision and best-corrected vision, the prevalence of blindness was 0.86% (95% CI: 0.51–1.22) and 0.32% (95% CI: 0.1–0.55). The most common causes of visual impairment were uncorrected refractive error (41.8%) and cataract (20%). Conclusions According to our findings, the prevalence of visual impairment was intermediate in comparison with other studies. The prevalence of visual impairment in our study was similar to the global average; however, it was markedly high at older ages. Nonetheless, refractive errors and cataracts remain as the main causes of impaired vision and blindness in this population, while these two conditions are easily treatable with correction or surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Hashemi
- Noor Research Center for Ophthalmic Epidemiology, Noor Eye Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Khabazkhoob
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Noor Ophthalmology Research Center, Noor Eye Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Saatchi
- Noor Ophthalmology Research Center, Noor Eye Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hadi Ostadimoghaddam
- Refractive Errors Research Center, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Abbasali Yekta
- Department of Optometry, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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He M, Mathenge W, Lewallen S, Courtright P. Global Efforts to Generate Evidence for Vision 2020. Ophthalmic Epidemiol 2016. [PMID: 26218105 DOI: 10.3109/09286586.2015.1058958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mingguang He
- Centre for Eye Research Australia, University of Melbourne, Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital , East Melbourne, Victoria , Australia
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Prevalence of refractive errors among primary school children in a tropical area, Southeastern Iran. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apjtb.2015.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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