Blindness and visual impairment due to age-related cataract in sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review of recent population-based studies

Aim: We aimed to evaluate age-related cataract as a contributor to blindness and visual impairment (VI) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Methods: A systematic review of population-based studies published between 2000 and October 2012. Prevalence and proportions of blindness and VI due to cataract, cataract surgical coverage (CSC), per cent intraocular lens (IOL) implantation and visual outcomes of surgery in accordance with WHO criteria were ascertained. Results: Data from 17 surveys (subjects mostly aged ≥50-years-old) from 15 different countries in SSA were included, comprising 96 402 people. Prevalence of blindness ( presenting visual acuity