Iranian Cataract Surgery Survey: Design and Study Protocol

Purpose: Cataract is one of the most common diseases of older ages and, at present, the leading cause of avoidable blindness in the world. Along with the population growth, the rate of cataract surgeries is increasing in most countries worldwide. The number of cataract operations per million population per year is known as the cataract surgery rate (CSR) and is one of the indicators introduced by Vision 2020 initiative. This index is a useful indicator of the level of eye care services. The main purpose of the ICSS was to determine the CSR from 2000 to 2005 in Iran and use results to develop improved strategies towards the elimination of cataract. Methods: In a descriptive, retrospective, cross-sectional survey, the Iranian population which has undergone cataract surgery is targeted. First, all major and minor cataract surgery services are identified and the required sample is randomly selected. Data from 8000 cases of cataract surgery is collected and studied. Conclusion: The Iranian cataract surgery survey (ICSS) determines the CSR over a five year period and provides valuable information in terms of cataract surgery methods and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. The results will definitely be useful in developing strategies to eliminate cataract from the causes of avoidable blindness and improve eye care services.