Prevalence and causes of blindness and visual impairment in the Niger Delta- a case study of Emohua Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Visual impairment and blindness are major public health and social problems worldwide. The problem is worse in the developing countries due to ignorance, infections, malnutrition and lack of adequate eye care services especially in the rural areas. The misfortune of losing one’s eyesight is worsened by dearth of rehabilitative and supportive facilities.

Public information systems, epidemiological data and funding for blindness programmes are often lacking and have hampered comprehensive blindness control programmes in the rural communities, a fact that underscores the importance of this study.

Aim: To estimate the prevalence and causes of visual impairment and blindness in Emohua Local Government Area.

Method: A population based descriptive cross-sectional study conducted between 11th October and 29th November 2014 in Emohua Local Government Area. Three hundred and fifty-three inhabitants were recruited in the study through a multi-stage sampling method. Demographic data, detailed ocular examinations were recorded and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.

Results: The study participants were 164 males and 189 females (M:F=1:1.2). The prevalence of bilateral and unilateral blindness is 1.4% and 2.5% respectively. Over 6% had various degrees of visual impairment in both eyes and 9.1% had unilateral visual impairment. Cataract was the leading cause of bilateral blindness, accounting for 60% of cases; glaucoma (20%) and corneal opacity (20%).

Conclusion: The prevalence of visual impairment and blindness in Emohua L.G.A. is of public health importance. Government and non-governmental organizations should step up comprehensive eye health care programmes to realize the goals of vision 2020.

Keywords: Prevalence, Blindness, Visual impairment, Emohua LGA