Prevalence and Causes of Blindness and Low Vision in Southern Sudan
Author Information
Author(s): Ngondi Jeremiah, Ole-Sempele Francis, Onsarigo Alice, Matende Ibrahim, Baba Samson, Reacher Mark, Matthews Fiona, Brayne Carol, Emerson Paul M
Primary Institution: Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge
Hypothesis
What is the prevalence of blindness and low vision in southern Sudan and what are the main causes?
Conclusion
Blindness is a serious public health problem in Mankien, and there is an urgent need to implement comprehensive blindness prevention programs.
Supporting Evidence
- The prevalence of blindness was found to be 4.1%.
- The prevalence of low vision was found to be 7.7%.
- Cataract and trachoma were the leading causes of blindness.
- The study was conducted in a postconflict setting with logistical challenges.
- The response rate for the survey was 84.6%.
Takeaway
In southern Sudan, many people are blind or have low vision, mostly because of cataracts and trachoma, and we need to help them see better.
Methodology
A cross-sectional survey using two-stage cluster random sampling was conducted.
Potential Biases
Bias could have been introduced due to the random walk method and exclusion of absentees.
Limitations
The study faced challenges due to insecurity, exclusion of some villages, and potential selection bias.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 41.5% males and 58.5% females, aged 5 to 80 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI, 3.4–4.8
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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