Prevalence and causes of visual impairment in Dongaria indigenous (tribal) community. Tribal Odisha eye disease study # 12
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...
| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications
2023-01-01
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| Series: | Indian Journal of Ophthalmology |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://www.ijo.in/article.asp?issn=0301-4738;year=2023;volume=71;issue=7;spage=2850;epage=2855;aulast=Majhi |
| Summary: | 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. |
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| ISSN: | 0301-4738 1998-3689 |