Low Vision in The Blind Centers at Khartoum State

Abstract

Abstract This is the first clinical study in Sudan aimed to promote low vision services, and other objectives were to investigate the main causes of low vision and its interrelations with the visual functions and mobility of subjects in the blind centers. Current data was gathered on the prevalence, magnitude, common causes, standard low vision services, and the situation in Sudan. It emerged that a comprehensive opinion of low vision services in Sudan had not been applied. Clinical investigations were performed for visually impaired sample (171 subjects) from Sudan National Association of the Blinds and Elnur Institute. Functional tests included; visual acuity (log MAR), contrast sensitivity (Pelli-Robson), colour vision (colour vision test made easy), confrontation and Amsler tests; structural inspection of anterior eye and interior eye; refraction (retinoscope); topography of anterior cornea (keratoscope); assessment of low vision devices (lenses, telescopes, magnifiers); and observation of mobility. The results revealed that 40% of subjects in blind centers had functional vision which can be utilized with proper low vision service. Significant deficiencies were found for all visual functions. The trend of causes in this study is similar to that found in most developing countries. Statistically all causes had similar effect on visual functions and most causes had some link with the family history of subjects. Mobility had provided good indictor differentiating functional vision from a non-useful residual vision in the blinds. Key words: Low vision, Visual functions, Refraction, Low vision devices, Causes, Mobility.