Rapid and cost-effective method to assess vision disorders in a population

Abstract

Purpose: The aim was to develop a means of rapidly assessing eye health in a cost- and time-effective way to monitor changes over time. Methods: Key features of the five main eye diseases that cause vision loss in Australia were assessed. Participation was volunteer-based from randomly selected Melbourne suburbs. Recruitment was by mail. Anterior segments and fundi were photographed with a digital non-mydriatic fundus camera. Visual fields were tested with Frequency Doubling Technology. A questionnaire collected information about demographics, general health and lifestyle. Findings from this rapid assessment were compared with those from a population-based study. Results: A total of 1695 peo..