Affiliation:
1. Hebrew University-Hadassah Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Jerusalem, Israel
2. Medical Corps, Israel Defense Forces, Israel
3. Department of Ophthalmology, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center and Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
4. Department of Ophthalmology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Amblyopia, when not diagnosed at appropriate age, leads to uncorrectable visual impairment with considerable social and financial implications. The aim of this study was to assess socio-demographic disparities in amblyopia prevalence among Israeli adolescents, in order to identify susceptible groups in the population.
Methods
A nationwide, population-based, cross-sectional study of Israeli adolescents examined between 1993 and 2017. All study participants underwent visual acuity examination with socio-demographic data and previous medical history documented. Associations were analyzed using univariable and multivariable logistic regression models.
Results
Among 1 334 650 Israeli-born candidates aged 17.15±0.26 years, amblyopia was diagnosed in 1.07%. The overall prevalence of amblyopia has declined from 1.59% in 1993 to 0.87% in 2017. Being in the lowest socioeconomic status and below average cognitive function scores increased the odds of amblyopia in both males [odds ratio (OR) 1.64, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.45–1.87; OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.19–1.35, respectively] and females (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.30–1.98; OR 1.27, 95% CI 1.18–1.36, respectively). Among males, Orthodox and ultra-Orthodox educational systems were associated with increased odds of amblyopia (OR 1.16, 95% CI 1.09–1.25; OR 1.90, 95% CI 1.73–2.09). A significantly higher prevalence of amblyopia was recorded among 219 983 immigrants (1.51%, P<0.001).
Conclusions
Although the overall prevalence of amblyopia has decreased during the observed years, we found substantial evidence of socio-demographic disparities in amblyopia prevalence among adolescents, suggesting disparities in the prevention of the disease and its treatment. Demonstration of inequities at a national level could aid future guidance of health policy and augment current vision screening programs.
Publisher
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Subject
Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health
Cited by
8 articles.
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