Chief & Presenting Author: Dr.ARUNIMA P M

Co Author(s): Dr.Sudha Madhavi K.M.

Abstract

Aim of the study is to determine the major cause of vision loss and visual disability and to categorise and assess the percentage of visual disability. A cross-sectional study from April 2023 – March 2024 on individuals seeking visual disability certificates utilizing a structured proforma. Ocular examination including visual acuity, slit-lamp, fundus were conducted. Data on causes of blindness, disability percentage, demographics, and socio-economic status were collected. Of 100 participants (male: 63%, female: 37%), 55% had 40% disability, 30% had 75%, and 15% had 100%. Ages ranged from 3 to 70 years. Causes included congenital anomalies (22%), refractive errors (19%), retinitis pigmentosa (18%), and various ocular conditions such as corneal and retinal disorders, optic atrophy, cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, uveitis, and diabetic retinopathy. Congenital malformations, retinitis pigmentosa, and refractive errors with amblyopia were top causes of visual impairment.