Etiological Profile of Childhood Blindness in Maharashtra: A Study Based on Schools for the Blind
Sharad S. Jadhav, Akanksha Paliwal, Akash K. Chaurewar, Soham S. PalAbstract
Purpose:
To evaluate the anatomical causes, etiological timing, and avoidable factors associated with childhood blindness among students enrolled in schools for the blind in southern Maharashtra.
Methods:
This observational, cross-sectional study included children aged ≤19 years with best-corrected visual acuity <20/400 in the better eye from four government-recognised schools for the blind in Solapur district, Maharashtra (January–December 2024). Demographic, clinical, and etiological data were collected using a structured questionnaire and comprehensive ophthalmic examination. Causes were classified using the Gilbert and Foster anatomical classification system.
Results:
A total of 150 children (60% males; mean age, 12.28 ± 2.12 years) were evaluated. Whole-globe anomalies were the leading anatomical cause (44.0%;
Conclusion:
Childhood blindness in this cohort was predominantly attributable to congenital whole-globe malformations and corneal pathology, with a substantial contribution from lens disorders. The high proportion of avoidable blindness highlights the need for strengthened maternal and child health services, neonatal retinopathy of prematurity screening, and targeted public health interventions. Community-based studies are needed to determine the true regional burden.