Causes of Low Vision in Sudan: a Study among the Attendees of Blind Centres in Khartoum

ABSTRACT

Aims: This study primarily aimed to provide demographic information about the low vision in the blind center at Khartoum state. The objectives were to indicate the main causes of low vision and to show the effect of these causes on the visual functions and mobility among a sample group. Methods: Clinical investigations were performed for visually impaired sample (171 subjects) from Sudan National Association of the Blind and Elnur Institute. Functional tests included; visual acuity (log MAR); contrast sensitivity (Pelli-Robson); colour vision (colour vision test made easy); confrontation and Amsler tests; structural inspection of anterior eye and interior eye; refraction; assessment of low vision devices; and observation of mobility. Results: The results revealed that 39.7of subjects in blind centers had low vision which can be improved with proper low vision aids. Significant deficiencies were found for all visual functions. The trend of causes is similar to that found in most developing countries. Statistically all causes had similar effect on visual functions. Mobility had provided good indictor differentiating functional vision from a non-useful residual vision in the blinds. Conclusions: There is a great need for the ophthalmologists and optometrists to be aware about the causes; functional effects of low vision in the population; and the possibility of improving vision with the help of low vision devices to a satisfactory level