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Visual Impairment, What Do We Realy Know About The Epidemiology?

G.H.M.B. van Rens1,2 and M. de Boer1

1 Free University of Amsterdam,
Amsterdam
2 Elkerliek Hospital,
Helmond
The Netherlands.

Purpose

To review the literature about the prevalence and etiology of visual impairment.

Methodes

Literature of population based studies was analysed.

Results

Almost all studies on the epidemiology of visual impairment are either conducted on the elderly population or on those who visit special clinics. Prevalence of visual impairment can be estimated as 1-2% of the western population. Main causes are age-related macular degeneration, cataract, diabetic retinopathy and optic atrophy.

For children we rely on information of the institutions. Information about visual impairment during the working age is very scarce.

Conclusion

It is clear that in the Western world, visual impairment is primary a problem of the elderly. However, visual impairment in children and in the working age has great impact for the visually handicapted as the society as well.

There is need for an epedemiological study in all age groups to give us insight in the real numbers of visual impairment.

 

 
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