Ocular morbidity pattern in Kashmir – A hospital-based study

Abstract

In recent years, some epidemiological surveys of common eye diseases and prevalence and risk factors for blindness and low vision have been carried out in various parts of India. Still, very little information is available on the prevalence of ocular diseases in Jammu Kashmir, particularly those who live in the remote areas of Kashmir.A total of 234 patients attended the eye OPD, which constituted the study's sample size. The patient was screened, keeping COVID-19 guidelines in mind. Sanitization and social distancing were maintained. Visual acuity was evaluated using Snellen's chart for the literates and illiterate E chart for the illiterates from 6m. Both Objective and subjective refraction was performed on a patient to determine refractive error. Anterior segment was examined with torchlight and magnifying loupe & slit lamp if and where necessary. The fundus was examined on a slit lamp using the +90D or with Direct Ophthalmoscope. Refractive error was quantified in terms of spherical equivalent. The visual acuity of a patient was converted into LOG MAR for statistical calculation.A total of n=234 patients were examined for evaluation of ocular morbidity, of which 97(41.45%) were male %, and 137(58.55%) were female with a male to female ratio of 7: 10. The mean age of the patients was 36.96 ± 23.93 years.56.8% were diagnosed with refractive error and 30.8% with cataracts. There was a statistically significant relationship between increasing age and cataracts.As Refractive error and cataracts were the emerging ocular morbidity, the population is living in the remote areas of Kashmir, especially children, should get quality eye care.