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Blind and partial sight registration in Avon.
R H Grey1, C J Burns-Cox, A Hughes
1Bristol Eye Hospital.
The British Journal of Ophthalmology
|February 1, 1989
Summary
Blind and partially sighted registration rates in Avon remained stable, except for a significant reduction in cataract cases. Diabetic registrations held steady, while age-related macular degeneration increased, indicating evolving trends in vision impairment.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Understanding trends in blindness and partial sight is crucial for public health planning.
- Previous national data from Sorsby over 20 years ago provides a baseline for comparison.
- The study examines recent registration data to identify changes in causes of vision impairment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze blind and partially sighted registration forms in Avon over a two-year period.
- To compare current registration rates with historical national data.
- To identify trends in the causes of blindness and partial sight.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of all blind and partially sighted registration forms from Avon.
- Comparison of Avon's data with national figures from Sorsby's study.
- Examination of changes in registration rates per 100,000 population for specific conditions.
Main Results:
- Overall blind registration rates per 100,000 population showed no marked change compared to historical data.
- A significant reduction in registrations attributed to cataract was observed.
- Diabetic registrations remained stable, and an increase in registrations for age-related macular degeneration was noted.
Conclusions:
- Cataract is no longer a leading cause of registered blindness in the studied population.
- Stable diabetic registrations may be encouraging given population growth.
- Age-related macular degeneration is an increasing cause of vision impairment requiring attention.