Prevalence and causes of visual impairment and blindness in the south western region of Saudi Arabia.

A population-based survey of the prevalence of major causes of blindness and visual impairment was conducted in Bisha region, Saudi Arabia. Overall, 2882 people were examined. The prevalence of blindness (visual acuity of < 3/60 in the better eye with best available correction) was 0.7% and the prevalence of visual impairment (visual acuity < 6/12 but > or = 3/60 in the better eye with best available correction) was 10.9%. Cataracts were responsible for 52.6% of blindness and 20.6% of visual impairment. Refractive errors accounted for 67.9% of visual impairment. Proper management of cataracts and correction of refractive errors will cure 73.6% of blind subjects and 88.5% of visually handicap people in this part of the world.