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Ocular diseases and blindness in elderly Thais
A Singalavanija1, A Metheetrairut, N Ruangvaravate
1Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Summary
Ocular diseases are highly prevalent in older Thai adults, with lens and corneal conditions being most common. Blindness affects over 3% of this population, often due to preventable causes like cataracts and glaucoma.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Aging populations worldwide face increased risks of vision impairment.
- Ocular disease prevalence varies significantly across different geographic and demographic groups.
- Understanding the burden of eye conditions in specific communities is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of various ocular diseases and blindness.
- To identify the primary causes of vision impairment in elderly Thai individuals.
- To provide data for public health planning in the Bangkok region.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted on 2,092 participants aged 60 years and above.
- Examinations included visual acuity, ocular tension, and comprehensive anterior and posterior segment assessments.
- Ophthalmologists utilized slit lamp biomicroscopy and ophthalmoscopy for diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Lens disease affected 79.16% and corneal disease 40.72% of subjects.
- Blindness was present in 3.15% (66 individuals), and low vision in 35.5% (743 individuals).
- Leading causes of blindness included cataract, glaucoma, and age-related maculopathy.
Conclusions:
- Ocular diseases, particularly lens and corneal conditions, are highly prevalent in the elderly Thai population studied.
- A significant proportion of blindness and low vision cases are attributable to treatable or preventable conditions.
- Public health strategies should focus on early detection and management of common eye diseases in this demographic.