Prevalence and causes of visual impairment in Dongaria indigenous (tribal) community. Tribal Odisha eye disease study # 12
Indian J Ophthalmol
;
2023 Jul; 71(7): 2850-2855
Article
| IMSEAR
| ID: sea-225142
ABSTRACT
Purpose:
To document the spectrum and magnitude of eye disorders and visual impairment in the Dongaria—a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group in the Rayagada district of Odisha, India.Methods:
A door?to?door screening protocol included a record of basic health parameters, visual acuity for distance, and near and flashlight examination of the eyes. Spectacles were dispensed to those who improved; those who failed the screening were referred to fixed (primary and secondary) eye care centers.Results:
We examined 89% (n = 9872/11,085) of people who consented for screening. The mean age was 25.5 ± 18.8 years; 55% (n = 5391) were female; 13.8% (n = 1361) were under?five children, and 39% (n = 3884) were 6 to 16 years. 86% (n = 8515) were illiterate. 12.4% (n = 1224) were visually impaired, of which 9.9% had early moderate VI, and 2.5% had severe VI and blindness. Uncorrected refractive error was detected in 7.5% (n = 744) and cataracts in 7.6% (n = 754); among the adults, 41.5% (n = 924/2227) had presbyopia. In children, 20% (n = 790) had vitamin A deficiency, 17% (n = 234) had global acute malnutrition, and 18% (n = 244) were stunted for their age. Almost two?thirds (62%, n = 6144) confirmed habitual intake of alcohol, and 4% (n = 389) of adults had essential hypertension. Following the screening, 43.5% (n = 837) of referred patients reported to the fixed centers, and 55% (134/243) of people advised underwent cataract surgery. Spectacles were dispensed to 1496 individuals.Conclusion:
Visual impairment and malnutrition are high in Dongaria indigenous community. Permanent health facilities and advocacy would improve this community’s health and health?seeking behavior.
Full text:
Available
Index:
IMSEAR (South-East Asia)
Journal:
Indian J Ophthalmol
Year:
2023
Type:
Article
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