Socioeconomic status and incident cataract surgery: the Blue MountainsEye Study

Authors: Younan C.; Mitchell P.; Cumming R.; Rochtchina E.

Source: Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology, Volume 30, Number 3, June 2002 , pp. 163-167(5)

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Abstract:

The aim of this study was to assess whether socioeconomic statusinfluenced the incidence of cataract surgery in a defined populationof older Australians. The Blue Mountains Eye Study examined 3654residents during 1992-1994, then 2334 survivors (75.1%)during 1997-1999. Interviewers collected information onprincipal occupation, which was analysed using Australian Bureauof Statistics categories (stratified into four groups) and the DanielOccupational Prestige Scale. Cataract surgical history was confirmedat both visits from clinical examinations. There were no statisticallysignificant associations for any of the occupational categorieswith the 5-year incidence of cataract surgery. In summary, this studycould not confirm any major socioeconomic associations with incidentcataract surgery, supporting the view that cataract surgery is largelypatient driven and that its primary incentive is patient benefit.

Keywords: Blue Mountains Eye Study; cataractsurgery; incidence; socioeconomicstatus

Language: English

Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 2002-06-01