Prevalence of Age-related Cataracts in Population Older than 40 Years in Iranshahr

To investigate the prevalence of age-related cataracts in people older than 40 years, urban and rural regions covered by Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences in 2016.

This is a cross-sectional study (descriptive and analytic), in which all urban and rural population were screened by Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences. The primary screening examination in the health centers included a visual acuity test, a red reflex, a retinoscopy, and an assessment of anterior chamber with a flashlight and an ophthalmoscope were performed by an optometrist. Those with visual impairment or impaired red reflex were referred to an ophthalmologist. Lens opacity after pupil dilatation and biomicroscope examination were classified according to the Lens Opacity Classification System III (LOCS III) standard protocol. Information on gender, occupation, and education was recorded.

In the primary screening، 4352 patients were screened, of whom 230 (5.31%) patients had cataract and entered the study. A total of 125 women (54.34%) and 105 men (45.66%) over 40 years of age with abnormalities were studied. The age range of the participants in this study was at least 40 and at most 81 years and the mean age of the subjects was 61.2 ± 7.7 years. The overall incidence of cataracts was about 7.3% concerning the number of surgeries. However, the prevalence of abnormal membranes was 40.28% and the highest frequency was 68 (59.3%) in the age group of 60-69 years. The prevalence of age-related cataracts in rural areas was higher than in urban areas. In terms of occupation، 50 (49.7%) were workers and farmers. In terms of education، 102 (44.34%) were illiterate. Less than half of the patients (41.59%) had information about the causes of illness. Most patients (97.9%) agreed that they should undergo surgery, but most (64.72%) avoided doing it because of financial difficulties.

Several factors have been associated with age-related cataract. In our study, the role of occupation, age, place of residence،, and education level was more effective than other factors. The prevalence of this disorder was relatively lower in people with higher education and income، while better diagnosis and treatment were done earlier.