Prevalence of visual impairment and coverage of cataract surgical services: associations with sex, disability and economic status in five diverse sites

Visual impairment and access to services can vary significantly across and between different population groups and it is important to understand factors driving inequitable eye health. This paper presents results from five surveys where prevalence of VI and cataract surgical coverage were measured and examined for differences by sex, economic status, and disability.

We found that relationships between VI and relative wealth, sex, and disability are complex and variable. Although certain characteristics may be associated with lower coverage or worse outcomes, they cannot be generalised and local data are vital to achieve good coverage.