Prevalence, Causes, and Factors Associated with Visual ImpairmentandBlindnessamongRegistered Pensioners inGhana
Date
2019-10-07
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Journal of Ophthalmology
Abstract
Purpose. To determine the prevalence, causes, and factors associated with presenting visual impairment and blindness among
pensioners. Design. A nationwide cross-sectional study. *is study was part of the analysis on data obtained in the pensioners’
medical survey conducted among members of the National Pensioners Association in Ghana. Method. (i) Setting: it was a
multicenter study involving thirteen centers throughout Ghana with a center in each regional capital. (ii) Study population: the
study involved 4813 pensioners. (iii) Observation procedures: data were captured through the use of questionnaires, physical
examinations including eye examinations, and urine and blood sample analysis. (iv) Main outcome measure: presenting visual
impairment and blindness (as defined by the WHO ICD-10 classification). Results. *e overall prevalence of blindness among
pensioners in Ghana was 3.8% (95% CI � 3.2–4.4), while the prevalence of moderate and severe visual impairment was 21.7% (95%
CI � 20.5–23.0). *e prevalence of blindness was lowest in the 60–65-year-old age group (2.1% (95% CI � 1.3–2.8)) and highest in
the above 80-year-old age group (12.2% (95% CI � 6.6–17.8)). Cataract was the leading cause of blindness (62.4%) and moderate
and severe visual impairment (55.7%). Factors significantly associated with blindness and visual impairment include educational
status, vegetarianism, arthritis, and having proteins in urine. Conclusion. *ere is a high prevalence of visual impairment and
blindness among the pensioners in Ghana. Sadly, the greatest cause was cataract, which is correctable. Increase in formal
education status will be important in the prevention of blindness and visual impairment.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
Visual Impairment, Blindness, Ghana, Registered Pensioners