Obstacles Facing by Patients to Undergo Cataract Surgeries - A Hospital Based Study in and Around Ananthapuramu.

ABSTRACT

Background: Cataract estimated to be the cause of blindness among 17.6 million people worldwide. A few studies have done in India about obstacles or barriers of patients to undergo cataract surgeries, so the present study has undertaken to know the reasons for not accepting cataract surgical services. Methods: Patients in the age group of above 45 years, vision <20/60 and presenting with features of cataract were included. BCVA (Best corrected Visual acuity) was measured using Snellen chart and Cataract was diagnosed using torch light and Direct Ophthalmoscopy. Patients knowledge about cataract, factors obstructing patients to undergo cataract surgeries, regarding service delivery, cost and affordability were assessed. Results: Out of 120 patients, 46 (38.3%) were aware that they have cataract. Among various obstacles, about 60% were able to manage daily work and worry about the cost of surgery. Obstacles including Busy with work, cans see clearly with other eye were seen in above 50% of patients. Out of 120 patients, 83 (69.1%) did not undergo cataract surgery because of insufficient family income, whereas 54 (45%) persons does not have accompany to attend for cataract surgery.Conclusion: Need of eye health campaigns, providing services like, free of cost, transport facilities and place of treatment, follow up services. Many Government Organizations and Hospitals are conducting free camps for cataract surgeries, other than these health education is necessary by explaining about the beneficiaries of cataract surgery and advise people to avail health benefits or free camps to undergo cataract surgery.