Dr. ABHISHEK ONKAR

Abstract

Background: Presbyopic asthenopia cause ocular morbidity and inflicts economic disadvantage. Prevalence of presbyopia is not well known, especially in low-economy nations, as most studies account for distance vision. Purpose: To assess the hospital-based prevalence of uncorrected presbyopia and its spectacle coverage in the only tertiary care hospital in Andamans. Methods: A review of medical records was done for patients above 40 years of age attending the OPD from July 2018 to June 2020. Spectacle coverage was determined and associations of presbyopia and spectacle coverage were determined. Results: 4428 patients aged above 40 years were prescribed spectacles during the study period. The prevalence of presbyopia was 62.0%, higher among urban residents and aged above 50. Spectacle coverage was 65%, higher among working literate adults. Conclusion: This study indicated a high prevalence of presbyopia in the study area and uncorrected presbyopia remains a public health concern.