Dr.Dipanjana Das

Dr. Sagar Karmakar, Dr. SANJAY KUMAR DAULAT THAKUR, DR. PRATIROOP GANGOPADHYAY

Abstract

Aim: To analyze various ocular diseases leading to permanent visual handicap in a district of West Bengal based on visual handicap certification issued by ophthalmic surgeons after verification of domicile. Method: Records of 340 patients obtaining visual handicap certificate during the period of 1st January 2018 to 31st December 2019 were retrieved and analyzed. Results: Among the 340 patients, 57.95% had non preventable causes of visual impairment, highest being due to Congenital Ocular Malformations (21.47%) followed by Retinitis Pigmentosa (17.65%). While the rest 42.05% had preventable causes, highest being Glaucoma (10.59%) followed by Corneal Opacity (6.76%). Conclusion: Thus, we conclude that hereditary non preventable causes form the main bulk of visual impairment, which warrants genetic counselling̣ and social rehabilitation. Early diagnosis and management of preventable causes can significantly reduce the economic burden visual impairment puts upon society.