Prevalence and risk factors of age-related cataract among adults aged 50 + in Gegharkunik, Armenia.

PURPOSE

This study assessed the prevalence of age-related cataract and associated risk factors among people aged 50 years and older in Gegharkunik province of Armenia using the Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) methodology.

METHODS

A cluster sampling technique was used to draw the study sample. Twenty-four clusters were selected with 50 people in each cluster. A structured interviewer-based questionnaire collected information about participants' socio-demographics, visual acuity, cataract status, health characteristics, and health-related behaviours. An ophthalmic examination assessed participants' visual acuity and cataract status. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

The study recruited 1,099 participants. The mean age of the participants was 64.8. The prevalence of cataract was 24.3%. The prevalence of mild to severe visual impairment and blindness after pinhole correction was 17.4% and 1.9% in the sample, respectively. In the adjusted analysis, advanced age, low level of education, and diabetes were associated with cataract, while sex, hypertension, smoking status, and physical activity lost their significance after adjusting for covariates.

CONCLUSION

Regular eye exams and targeted public health programs might be effective for at-risk groups. Community education can improve diabetes management, promote healthier behaviors, and raise awareness, especially in people with lower education levels.