Dr. RAUNAQ POONIA

Dr.Anju Kochar, Dr.NABAB ALI KHAN

Abstract

Aim: Aim to identify causes of blindness and visual impairment among students of blind school in Bikaner.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study was carried out in blind school.

Materials and Methods: Total of 81 students of blind school were included in study and informed consent from parents were obtained. Relevant ocular history and examinations were carried out.

Results: Main causes of blindness were microphthalmos (25.92%), corneal scar (20.98%), phthisis bulbi (16.04%), retinal dystrophy (8.64%), optic atrophy (8.64%), buphthalmos (6.17%), amblyopia (6.17%), staphyloma (3.7%), cataract (1.23%), aphakia (1.23%), coloboma (1.23%). Of these, 13 (16%) students had preventable causes of blindness.

Conclusion: It was found that hereditary diseases, corneal scar and glaucoma were prominent causes of blindness and almost 16% of students had preventable causes, indicating need of genetic counseling and focused intervention.

Key words: Blind school, ocular morbidity, prevention of blindness