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Prevalence, Causes, and Risk Factors of Visual Impairment: Evidence from Duhknah, a Rural Community in Saudi Arabia
1Department of Optometry, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia.
Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 14, 2025
Summary
High visual impairment (VI) affects a rural Saudi community, with uncorrected refractive errors being the primary cause. Strengthening primary eye care and regular screenings are crucial for prevention and early detection.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Visual impairment (VI) remains a significant global health issue, disproportionately affecting underserved rural populations.
- Rural communities often face barriers to accessing essential eye care services.
- Understanding the local prevalence and causes of VI is vital for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of VI and refractive errors in Duhknah, a rural area in Saudi Arabia.
- To identify the main causes and risk factors associated with visual impairment in this population.
- To inform public health strategies for improving eye care in rural settings.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 929 participants aged 6-90 in Duhknah, Saudi Arabia.
- Refractive errors assessed using non-cycloplegic autorefractometry.
- Eye examinations included slit lamp biomicroscopy and ophthalmoscopy; VI classified per ICD-11.
Main Results:
- A high prevalence of presenting VI (39.8%) was observed, with uncorrected refractive errors accounting for 81.4% of cases.
- Prevalence rates for hyperopia (20.6%), myopia (36.9%), and astigmatism (13.2%) were recorded.
- Women and those with prior eye exams showed higher odds of VI, while older individuals had lower odds.
Conclusions:
- Most participants had never undergone an eye examination, highlighting a critical gap in primary eye care.
- The high prevalence of VI and uncorrected refractive errors necessitates enhanced eye health services in rural Saudi Arabia.
- Regular vision screening and improved access to refractive services are recommended to reduce VI and align with Saudi Vision 2030 goals.
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