Prevalence and Causes of Blindness in People Age 50 Years and Above, the Intervention Category and Action Required Reducing Blindness in West Java Province Indonesia

Abstract

Syumarti, Rini M, Ratnanina N, Halim A and Limburgh H

Introduction: Data prevalence and causes of blindness are needed in West Java province since it has highest population of Indonesia then its play important role to reduce blindness for Indonesia. The objective of this study is to assess current situation on blindness in West Java province. Methodology: Population based survey was conducted on February to October 2014. Sample size 3000 peoples age ≥ 50 years was calculated using an automated program within the RAAB software package. Sixty clusters were selected by probability proportionate to size sampling. Households within clusters were selected through compact segment sampling. Participants underwent visual acuity (VA) screening with a tumbling E. Eyes examination and diagnosis done by ophthalmologists. Blindness and Visual Impairment (VI) were verified by WHO definition. A program has been developed in Visual FoxPro version 7.0© for RAAB. The results: 2842 were examined (94.7%), 87 persons were absent, 48 refused to participate, and 23 were not able. Prevalence of bilateral blindness with available correction in people aged 50+ was 2.8% (95% CI 2.0-3.5), untreated cataract was the most common cause of bilateral blindness (71.7%), other posterior segment disease (10.9%), all other globe/CNS abnormalities (6.5%), non-trachomatous corneal scarring (4.3%), glaucoma and uncorrected refractive error (2.2%). Of all bilateral blindness 82.6% is considered avoidable. 73.9% is considered treatable (cataract and URE). Conclusion: Cataract was the main cause of blindness, considered treatable; priority should be given for cataract surgery followed by optical services

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