Presbyopic correction coverage and barriers to the use of near vision spectacles in rural Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the presbyopia correction coverage and the barriers to the use of near vision spectacles in rural Gwagwalada, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: Eligible subjects were refracted, with their distance correction in place, near vision was tested and corrected using World Health Organization guidelines. A pretested near vision-related questionnaire was administered to collect information on spectacle use, barriers to the use of near vision spectacles and willingness to pay for replacement spectacles. Presbyopic correction coverage, met, and unmet presbyopic spectacle needs were calculated. Results: The presbyopic correction coverage for the sample was 21%, the met need was 11.2%, and the unmet presbyopic need was 42.1%. Presbyopic correction coverage was significantly higher for males, skilled workers, and those with at least secondary education. Barriers to obtaining near vision spectacles included cost (51.3%) and spectacles not being a priority (19.7%). Skilled workers and those with at least secondary education were willing to pay up to one thousand naira ($5) for replacement spectacles. Conclusion: Presbyopic correction coverage is low with a large unmet need. A community-based approach to the provision of spectacles that are new, of good quality, accessible, and affordable is needed.