Epidemiology in the design and evaluation of blindess control programs

This combined epidemiologic/ophthalmologic study has demonstrated that: Keratomalacia has a marked seasonality which, if recognized, could have been incorporated into the design of the intervention program. Vitamin A deficiency may well be the leading cause of acquired bilateral anterior segment blindness among preschool age children. The incidence and prevalence of keratomalacia, however, is far lower than previous estimates, which were based on chemical surveys and clinical impressions. The nationwide mass distribution program was ineffective in reducing the incidence of keratomalacia.