A Cross-Sectional Study on the Causes of Severe Visual Impairment and Childhood Blindness among Children in Blind Schools in Northern Uttar Pradesh

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the primary anatomical and etiological causes of severe visual impairment (SVI) and childhood blindness among children enrolled in blind schools in northern Uttar Pradesh, informing public health planning, early intervention, and genetic counselling strategies. Methodology: This study investigates the primary anatomical and etiological causes of severe visual impairment (SVI) and childhood blindness among students enrolled in blind schools in northern Uttar Pradesh. A cross-sectional analysis of 98 children was conducted. Major causes were found to be congenital in origin, with a substantial proportion linked to suspected hereditary and chromosomal anomalies. Preventable postnatal causes such as trauma, measles, and vitamin A deficiency were also identified. Results: Congenital ocular anomalies such as coloboma, microphthalmos, congenital cataract, foveal hypoplasia, and retinitis pigmentosa were predominant. Conclusion: Congenital and hereditary ocular anomalies are the leading causes of childhood blindness in northern Uttar Pradesh. With half of the cases linked to genetic factors, genetic counselling and early screening programs are essential.