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Updated: Jul 8, 2026
07:06
Binocular Dynamic Visual Acuity in Eyeglass-Corrected Myopic Patients
Published on: March 29, 2022
Blindness and eye disease in Cambodia
Allan R Rutzen1, Nancy J Ellish, Larry Schwab
1Helen Keller International, New York, New York, USA. arutzen@RutzenEye.com
Ophthalmic Epidemiology
|December 29, 2007
Summary
Blindness and low vision are prevalent in Cambodia, with cataract and uncorrected refractive errors being major causes. Many cases are preventable, highlighting the need for a national blindness prevention plan.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Blindness and low vision pose significant public health challenges globally, particularly in developing nations.
- Understanding the specific prevalence and causes of visual impairment is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of blindness and low vision in central Cambodia.
- To identify the primary causes of visual impairment and common eye diseases in the region.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional, population-based study was conducted in Kandal Province, Cambodia.
- A total of 5,803 residents were interviewed and examined through a house-to-house survey.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of bilateral blindness was 1.1%, with cataract being the leading cause (67.4%).
- Low vision affected an additional 4.4%, primarily due to uncorrected refractive error (49.8%) and cataract (42.7%).
- Unilateral blindness prevalence was 1.2%, with significant contributions from trauma-related injuries.
Conclusions:
- The study reveals a relatively high prevalence of blindness and low vision in Cambodia.
- Most identified causes are treatable or preventable, emphasizing the potential for intervention.
- War-related injuries, including landmine explosions, are a notable cause of ocular pathology, necessitating specific prevention strategies.
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