Burden of Presbyopia among Adults Aged 40 and Above in North Mecha, Ethiopia, 2024

Abstract

Background: Presbyopia is the gradual loss of the eye’s ability to focus on near objects, resulting from decreased elasticity of the lens and weakening of the eye muscles with age. It is a natural part of aging and can affect everyone eventually. Globally, an estimated 1.8 billion people are affected by presbyopia. However, there is limited data on the community-level prevalence of presbyopia in Ethiopia.

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of presbyopia and identify associated factors among adults aged 40 years and above in the North Mecha district, Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 520 individuals aged 40 years and above from April 1 to May 30, 2023, in five randomly selected kebeles of North Mecha district. Participants were selected using a two-stage cluster sampling method. Data were collected using a pretested structured questionnaire and clinical eye examinations conducted by trained health professionals. Epi Info version 7 was used for data entry, and the data were analyzed using SPSS version 26. Binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with presbyopia.

Result: The prevalence of presbyopia was 52.3% [95% CI: 48.1%–56.7%]. Significant associated factors included increasing age (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.6–4.8), history of eye symptoms (AOR = 7.5, 95% CI: 4.3–13.1), and knowledge about presbyopia (AOR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.1–2.6).

Conclusion and Recommendation: The burden of presbyopia was found to be high among 40 and above year population. Addressing this issue requires large-scale community-based screening, public awareness campaigns, and the provision of affordable near-vision corrective spectacles through the existing healthcare system.