Language
English
Publication Date
1-1-2025
Journal
PLOS Global Public Health
DOI
10.1371/journal.pgph.0004619
PMID
40378109
PMCID
PMC12083840
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
5-16-2025
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Post-print
Abstract
Cataracts are a leading cause of global blindness, with many low-resource populations having poor access to eye care. While much is known regarding surgical access and outcomes, less is understood about the initial detection of operable cataracts in low-resource settings. We performed a comprehensive literature review on existing and emerging cataract screening methods in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The search keywords were "cataract detection, diagnosis, assessment, and evaluation in low- and middle- income countries". 1,825 articles were identified and 62 were selected for final inclusion comprising reviews, meta-analyses, and original research studies. Only 12 studies proposed new cataract screening methods for low-income settings. We extracted data on the efficacy and cost-efficiency of these novel methods and compared them to existing conventional cataract diagnosis methods. 8 out of 12 original research works developed novel devices or imaging modalities such as low-cost ophthalmoscopes and retinal cameras for cataract detection. 7 studies leveraged non-ophthalmologist staff to test their methods, suggesting a potential benefit of employing additional personnel for cataract screening. 8 studies utilized tele-ophthalmology and artificial intelligence (AI) platforms with high cataract detection accuracy. Overall, rates of cataract diagnosis in LMICs can be increased through a multifaceted strategy involving low-cost, portable devices operated by local healthcare workers and augmented by telehealth or AI approaches. Such efforts can aid in addressing the disparity between cataract diagnosis and surgical intervention in low-resource environments. However, improvements in research infrastructure are needed to support such efforts and the ability to thoroughly evaluate new innovations.
Published Open-Access
yes
Recommended Citation
Truong, Paulina N; Merlinsky, Elizabeth A; Maamari, Nicholas C; et al., "Tools and Methods for Cataract Recognition in Low-Resource Settings: A Narrative Review" (2025). Faculty and Staff Publications. 5505.
https://digitalcommons.library.tmc.edu/baylor_docs/5505