ISSN: 2578-465X
Authors: Mahmudul MDH*, Imtiaj HC, Salman ATH, Saeema MA and Farzanur R
Background: Childhood blindness poses a significant public health challenge worldwide, with various causative factors including congenital disorders, infections, trauma, and untreated refractive errors. Bangladesh, like many developing nations, faces a substantial burden of childhood visual impairment, affecting educational experiences and overall well-being. Early detection and intervention are crucial in preventing childhood blindness, making school-based screening programs imperative. This study sought to offer understandings into the role of Al-Basar International Foundation, Bangladesh, in addressing childhood blindness through the outcomes of its school-based vision screening camps. Methodology: This cross-sectional study examines data from the Al-Basar International Foundation's School eye screening camp in Dhaka, Bangladesh, conducted in 2016. A total of 81,226 students from 115 schools were screened by a multidisciplinary team comprising school teachers, optometrists, and ophthalmologists. Data collection included socio demographic information, visual assessments, and actions taken by healthcare professionals. Results: The study reveals insights into the socio-demographic profile of surveyed students, with a slightly higher representation of girls (52.9%) and a majority were from primary school (69.2%). Visual assessments by school teachers and optometrists identified varying degrees of visual impairment and eye conditions, with refractive errors being predominant. Optometrists prescribed glasses for a majority of cases, while a proportion required medication or referrals for specialized care. Ophthalmologists diagnosed a range of eye conditions, with glaucoma and nystagmus being notable. Conclusion: The Al-Basar International Foundation's School eye camp emerges as a vital initiative in combating childhood blindness in Bangladesh. Collaborative efforts among school teachers, optometrists, and ophthalmologists have facilitated early detection and intervention, addressing a spectrum of eye conditions prevalent among school children. The camp's proactive approach, comprehensive assessments, and tailored interventions underscore its effectiveness in promoting optimal eye health and well-being.
Keywords: Childhood Blindness; School Based Eye Screening; Vision Screening Camp; Visual Impairment; Bangladesh
