Visual impairment and blindness among elderly in rural area of North Karnataka - A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Loss of sight of a person should not remain just a statistic but a personal tragedy, not only for the individual concerned but for all of us who claim to be concerned. With the introduction of universal eye health: A global action plan 2014–2019, dealing with a reduction in avoidable blindness across the world, this study would help in enlightening the present scenario in this region. Objective: The objective of the study was to know the prevalence of visual impairment and blindness among elderly in a rural area. Materials and Methods: All individuals aged 60 years and above residing in the area covered under Vantamuri Primary Health Centre (PHC), Belagavi, were selected for the study. A sample size of 620 was calculated and obtained by population proportionate sampling from five subcenters under Vantamuri PHC. Sociodemographic data were collected from the study subject with the help of pre-designed and pre-tested questionnaire and detailed ocular examination was carried out. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Institutional Ethics Committee. Results: The prevalence of visual impairment and blindness in our study was 28.07% and 2.90%, respectively. Female constituted more than half (61.11%) of blind individuals, whereas male (51.39%) dominated visual impairment. Cataract was the most common cause of visual impairment and blindness. Conclusion: Blindness was more common among elderly female compared to male. Cataract being the most common cause for visual impairment, it can be prevented by more coverage and better health care services in the rural area.