Analysis of unique disability identification card (UDID) associated visual handicap certificates at a tertiary care center in Northern Maharashtra

Abstract

Purpose: To analyze blindness certificates to find causes of visual impairment, low vision, and blindness in a tertiary care hospital in northern Maharashtra. Methods: A retrospective study of all visually impaired patients applying for disability certification between January and June 2023 (6 months period) was performed from the medical record. The demographics, aetiologies, grades and classification of visual impairment according to the new guidelines provided in the Gazette of India published in 2018 of the study subjects were analyzed. Results were compared with data from studies on blindness certificates and population-based studies. Results: A total of 771 patients were included in the study. The mean age was 39.42 ± 19 years (range: 1–85 years). Most patients were in the 41–64 years age group (40.98%). Males were involved more commonly (67.70%). According to the grade and percentage of disability, grade II (30%) was most commonly seen in 35.02% of individuals followed by low vision, grade III a–III e, (40%–80%) seen in 27.37% individuals. Blindness, grade IV a–IV b (90%–100%) was seen in 33.46% individuals. Overall, the most common cause of visual impairment among one-eyed, low-vision and blind individuals was phthisis bulbi/hereditary globe condition/coloboma. Among one-eyed and minimal disability individuals, rest common causes included amblyopia, squint and contracted socket post-evisceration. In patients with low vision and blindness, other common causes included retinitis pigmentosa, optic atrophy and pathological myopia. Conclusion: Analysis of blindness certificates provides valuable information regarding different causes of visual disability and provides an insight into the overall trends in visual disability profile and help in rehabilitation.

Keywords

• blindness certificates
• low vision
• visual impairment