The prevalence and risk factors of visual impairment among rural residents aged 50 years and above in Yugan county, China

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to assess the prevalence of visual impairment (PVI) among rural residents aged 50 years and above in Yugan county, China. Researchers analyzed risk factors and obtained scientific baseline information for blindness prevention and control.

Methods: Stratified cluster random sampling was used in randomly selecting 5540 rural residents aged ≥50 in Yugan county. Eligible residents were invited to receive visual acuity measurement via ophthalmic examinations. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to analyze any risk factors.

Results: A total of 5119 rural residents participated the ophthalmic examination and investigation. The PVI was 19.2%. The prevalence of moderate and severe visual impairment (≥20/400 and <20/60) was 16.9%, and blindness (<20/400) was 2.27%. Multivariable logistic regression showed that age, gender, education, occupation, marital status, drinking attitude, dietary habits, amount of sleep, and daily fruit intake were the main factors that were most predictive of the PVI.

Conclusion: The PVI among rural residents aged 50 years and above in Yugan county was higher than many other districts. Preventive work in Yuan and other local regions should be focused on older, separated/divorced, or widowed individuals, and those with a lower level of education. Strengthening public awareness consists of educating the public about visual health promotion and blindness intervention, including healthy diet and healthy habits, which will help to reduce visual impairment of the population.

KEYWORDS:

• China
• Prevalence of VI (PVI)
• risk factors
• rural residents
• visual impairment (VI)

Acknowledgments

We express our great appreciation to the collaborating government departments and their support. We also thank all the doctors, teachers, and students who took part in the design of the study and the site investigation.

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.

Additional information

Funding

This work was also conducted as part of the University of Hawaii-Nanchang University International Public Health Exchange Program.