Barriers to the uptake of cataract surgery

In The Gambia many patients identified as blind or as having low vision are not attending for surgery. The aim of this study was to investigate the reasons for non-attendance. Three methods were used: semi-structured interviews; focus group discussions; and written questionnaires completed by staff. The most frequently identified barrier by all three methods was cost, closely followed by lack of information about services, fear, transport difficulties, and the lack of an escort. In addition to the existing measures taken by the National Eye Care Programme (NECP) to reduce these barriers, further research into both the public's knowledge and attitudes regarding surgery for cataract is needed. More contact between members of the eye care programme and the communities would aid the transfer of information about the surgery.