Childhood blindness - Etiological risk factors as evaluated by blind schools survey in Prayagraj and surrounding districts

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of our study is to examine and evaluate avoidable i.e. preventable or treatable causes and etiological risk factors responsible for childhood blindness. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted by examining total 159 Students in four schools for blinds and four accelerated learning camps situated in Prayagraj and three neighbouring districts - Fatehpur, Koushambi and Pratapgarh. Basic informations including time, duration and mode of vision loss, was obtained. Careful prenatal, natal and postnatal history was also gathered. Vision assessment was done by snellen’s, Echarts or broken rings, student’s behaviour while walking, talking, moving head etc. Anterior segment and fundus examination was also done. We tried to evaluate causes and it aetiogolical risk factors responsible for childhood blindness in every blind student. Results: In about 80% of blind children cause was, microphthalmos, Anophthalmos, Buphthalmos, Corneal Conditions as staphyloma or scarring, uveal coloboma. Although R.O.P., R.D. and optic nerve diseases also contributed. Four students were not requiring admission, yet admitted. Specialized teachers were not available. Conclusion: Approximately 80% of childhood blindness may be avoidable i.e. preventable or treatable. Meticulous prenatal, natal and post natal care as avoiding medicines and x-rays during Ist trimesters, harmful traditional medications, nutritional & anti infective measures, safe delivery and effective immunization may reduce childhood blindness considerably. Keywords: Severe visual impairment, Microphthalmos, Anopthalmos, Buphthalmos.