[Establishment of a primary eye care network and creation of a cataract-free zone in Shunyi County of Beijing].

ABSTRACT

Based on the epidemiological survey of eye diseases in 1985, a primary eye care network was established in Shunyi County of Beijing in 1987. Cataract surgery was the primary measure for the prevention of blindness, with the aim of creating a cataract-free zone in the county. The activities included (1) establishment of a County Guiding Committee for the prevention of blindness; (2) establishment of a 3-levelled primary eye care network and a referral and monitor system; (3) training of 7 ophthalmologists, 449 eye care workers and 6 optometrists; (4) extensive publicity of knowledge for the prevention of blindness; (5) screening of low vision and blindness in which 815 cataract blind patients were identified; and (6) conducting benefit ophthalmic counselling services. Up to December, 1991, 667 cataract operations were performed, representing 81.84% of the total cataract blind, to meet the qualifications of a cataract-free zone. 90.64% of the blind were restored sight and 59.16% of the blind were able to resume work. Operative infection occurred in none and 97.42% of the operations had no complication.