Ocular Morbidity among Orphanages

Authors

  • M K Shrestha Tilganga Eye Centre, Gaushala Bagmati Bridge, Kathmandu
  • L Wolf University of California, San Francisco, CA
  • U Shrestha University of California, San Francisco, CA
  • K Gurung Tilganga Eye Centre, Gaushala Bagmati Bridge, Kathmandu
  • B S Chansi Tilganga Eye Centre, Gaushala Bagmati Bridge, Kathmandu
  • P Dhungana Tilganga Eye Centre, Gaushala Bagmati Bridge, Kathmandu
  • R Gurung Tilganga Eye Centre, Gaushala Bagmati Bridge, Kathmandu
  • S Ruit Tilganga Eye Centre, Gaushala Bagmati Bridge, Kathmandu

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31729/jnma.131

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

The study assesses the spectrum of ocular morbidity and predictors of morbidity in children living in orphanages in the Kathmandu Valley.

METHODS:

A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was performed at 12 orphanages over a period of three months. The survey included a questionnaire and a complete eye examination, which included measurement of refraction, ocular deviation, and a fundus exam. Prevalence of ocular morbidity was calculated. Factors associated with ocular morbidity were examined using logistic regression.

RESULTS:

A total of 660 children were included in the study (median age nine years [range 0.25-15]; 53% male). The prevalence of ocular morbiditywas 17.9% (118). Of those with ocular morbidity, 88.1% (104) had similar ocular problems bilaterally. The most common type of morbidity was refractive error, found in 70.3% (83) of those with ocular morbidity (12.6% overall).

CONCLUSIONS:

Refractive errors, which are largely correctable, are the greatest source of morbidity. In order to reduce childhood blindness, children living in orphanages are an appropriate group to target for future ocular screening in Nepal.

Keywords: children, Nepal, ocular morbidity, ocular screening, orphanage

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Published

2010-03-31

How to Cite

Shrestha, M. K., Wolf, L., Shrestha, U., Gurung, K., Chansi, B. S., Dhungana, P., Gurung, R., & Ruit, S. (2010). Ocular Morbidity among Orphanages. Journal of Nepal Medical Association, 49(177). https://doi.org/10.31729/jnma.131

Issue

Vol. 49 No. 177 (2010)

Section

Original Article

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