Prevalence and Demographic Characteristics of Cataract Among People Experiencing Homelessness: A Systematic Review

Homelessness is a complex issue associated with numerous health inequalities, including eye impairments, yet the prevalence of cataract among adults experiencing homelessness is poorly understood. We determined the prevalence of cataract among people experiencing homelessness, with a primary focus on adults, and summarized key demographic characteristics of the study populations.

We conducted a systematic review on the prevalence of cataract among adults experiencing homelessness. We searched 4 databases-MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL-for studies conducted worldwide and published from 1960 through 2024. We adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and used predefined search terms related to homelessness and cataract.

The final review included 10 studies in which cataract prevalence was assessed through either full ophthalmologic screening or clinical examination. The reported prevalence of cataract ranged from 1.0% (1 of 100) in a UK-based study to 28.6% (26 of 91) in a US-based study. Of the 10 included studies, 9 were cross-sectional and 1 was a cohort study, with mean participant ages ranging from 30.3 to 55.1 years.

This systematic review summarizes the available evidence on cataract among people experiencing homelessness. Findings highlight gaps in the literature and directions for future research to improve eye health in this population.