Visual impairment and blindness among the residents of blind schools in Jammu province: A cross-sectional survey.

BACKGROUND: Severe visual impairment and blindness are significant disabilities, impacting the lives of individuals and placing economic and psychosocial burden on society. Blind schools provide specialized education and rehabilitation services for individuals with visual impairment/blindness. Limited data exist on the causes of blindness in children in Jammu province, highlighting the need for this study to understand local trends and form targeted healthcare strategies. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to evaluate the causes of blindness among residents of blind schools in Jammu province; categorize them into preventable, treatable, and unavoidable causes; and explore vocational interests of the residents to support societal integration. METHODS: This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in two blind schools (one for boys and one for girls) in Jammu province. A total of 82 residents underwent detailed ophthalmological examination by trained doctors using standardized protocols, including visual acuity assessment and anterior and posterior segment evaluations. The etiology of blindness was categorized into congenital, acquired, and undetermined causes. RESULTS: The study included 82 participants (mean age: 14.3 ± 3.9 years; 57.32% males). A positive family history of blindness was noted in 12.19%. The majority of cases (67%) were due to congenital causes, 27% were acquired, and 6% had undetermined etiology. Anatomically, the most affected sites were the whole globe (26.8%), retina (26.8%), and cornea (19.6%). Avoidable causes formed a significant proportion (35%), emphasizing the importance of public health interventions. CONCLUSION: The findings highlight congenital anomalies, retinal dystrophies, and corneal scarring as significant contributors to blindness in this population. These data can be helpful for the policy makers to take adequate action for reducing the burden of avoidable blindness.