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Prevalence and patterns of childhood ocular morbidity in Kinshasa. A population-based study

Nadine Nsiangani Lusambo1, Janvier Kilangalanga Ngoy2, Angèle Dilu Ahuka3

  • 1Eye department, University Clinic, Medical School, University of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Global Epidemiology
|August 28, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Childhood ocular morbidity in Kinshasa is primarily allergic conjunctivitis and refractive errors. Many children do not receive treatment due to ignorance and cost, highlighting a critical public health gap.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Public Health
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Childhood ocular disorders significantly impact development and quality of life, particularly in low-resource settings.
  • Data on the prevalence and patterns of childhood eye diseases in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are scarce.
  • Understanding these patterns is crucial for targeted interventions and improving child eye health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence and patterns of childhood ocular disorders in Kinshasa, DRC.
  • To identify common childhood eye conditions and their associated factors within the study population.
  • To provide baseline data for public health initiatives addressing pediatric eye care in the region.

Main Methods:

  • A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Kinshasa from July to August 2017.
  • Household screening of children under 16 years old was performed by volunteers, followed by examination by ophthalmologists for those with identified pathologies.
  • Prevalence and patterns of ocular diseases were systematically determined.

Main Results:

  • The study screened 13,197 children, identifying ocular pathologies in 399 (3.6% prevalence).
  • Allergic conjunctivitis (56.2%) and refractive errors (27.4%) were the most common conditions, followed by strabismus (5%).
  • Age was the sole significant risk factor; 45% of affected children received no treatment, with self-medication and traditional remedies being common alternatives.

Conclusions:

  • Childhood ocular morbidity in Kinshasa is largely characterized by allergic conjunctivitis and refractive errors, with age-related variations in frequency.
  • Significant barriers to seeking professional medical care for childhood eye problems include ignorance and financial constraints.
  • There is an urgent need for increased awareness and accessible treatment options for childhood ocular disorders in Kinshasa.
Abstract

Keywords:
ChildhoodDR CongoOcular morbidityPatternPrevalence

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