Clinical eye visits in Tehran: a population-based study

To determine the extent of clinical eye visits as an indicator for utilization of eye care services in Tehran population and to assess factors contributing to their visits.

A random sample of 6497 individuals in Tehran were invited to take part in the study. All participants received complete eye exams and interview. At the interview, we collected information about demographic and socioeconomic status variables, past medical and eye history and history of eye visits.

In all 4565 people agreed to participated in the study giving a response rate of 70.3%. Among all participants, 34.7 % had not seen either an ophthalmologist or optometrist sometime in the past (95% confidence interval [Cl], 32.4 to 36.9) and 43.2% had not been seen by an eye care provider in the last 5 years (95% Cl, 40.8 to 45.6). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that men (OR= 1.30), younger participants (OR== 0.98) and the less educated {OR== 0.93), and were more likely to have neglected eye care. Those with visual impairment had less negative history of previous eye visits (OR== 0.41).

A large proportion of the population requiring eye care is currently not utilizing existing t: eye: care services. The results highlight high-risk groups.