Cataract surgical rate in Yemen: 2012.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health
• Global Health

Background:

• Cataract remains a leading cause of blindness globally.
• Understanding cataract surgical rates (CSR) is crucial for assessing eye care needs and planning interventions.
• Previous data on CSR in Yemen was limited, hindering effective public health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the cataract surgical rate (CSR) in Yemen for the year 2012.
• To identify the specific needs for reducing cataract-related blindness across all 22 governorates.
• To provide data for improving the equitable distribution of eye care services.

Main Methods:

• A standardized questionnaire was distributed to 184 eye units across Yemen.
• Data was collected from governmental, university, military, private, and charity healthcare facilities.
• The study encompassed a 12-month period from January 1 to December 31, 2012.

Main Results:

• A response rate of 80.7% was achieved.
• A total of 62,577 cataract surgeries were performed by 268 ophthalmologists and residents.
• The calculated cataract surgical rate was 2473 operations per million inhabitants per year, with 98% intraocular lens implantation.

Conclusions:

• Cataract surgical rate in Yemen has increased but remains below WHO targets.
• Significant disparities in CSR exist, particularly in rural areas, necessitating increased surgical capacity.
• Key challenges include a shortage of eye surgeons, limited rural accessibility, and affordability issues, requiring strategic interventions by the Ministry of Health.