Prevalence of Anterior Segment Diseases on a Remote Island: A Telemedicine-Based Study Using the Smart Eye Camera

TL;DR

A portable eye camera was used to screen for eye diseases on a remote island, revealing high rates of cataracts and ptosis, especially in older adults.

Contribution

The study demonstrates the effectiveness of telemedicine with a portable device in identifying eye diseases in remote areas.

Findings

Cataracts were found in 68.4% of eyes, with 84.5% prevalence in those over 60 years.

Ptosis was observed in 15.1% of eyes, and pterygium occurred in 3.2% of eyes, all in individuals over 60.

The Smart Eye Camera enabled remote diagnosis of anterior segment diseases in a rural population.

Abstract

Background and aim: Rural and remote areas often face a shortage of ophthalmic services, particularly in aging populations. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of anterior segment diseases using the Smart Eye Camera (SEC), a portable device enabling remote ophthalmic screenings.

Materials and methods: Ophthalmic screenings were conducted using the SEC to capture anterior segment videos of 158 eyes from 79 residents of Yoron Island. These videos were analyzed remotely by ophthalmologists, focusing on eyelid conditions, conjunctival abnormalities, anterior chamber depth, and lens status.

Results: The study revealed high prevalence rates of ptosis in 24 eyes (15.1%) and cataracts in 108 eyes (68.4%). Among patients over 60 years, cataracts were observed in 71 eyes (84.5%). Additionally, five eyes (3.2%) showed evidence of pterygium, all of which occurred in patients over 60 years of age.

Conclusions: Telemedicine using the SEC effectively identified age-related anterior segment diseases in this remote island population. The findings underscore the need for continued use of portable imaging devices in underserved areas to bridge gaps in eye care access.

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