PREVALENSI GANGGUAN PENGLIHATAN PADA MASYARAKAT DI PONDOK PESANTREN PESISIR IBNU BATUTAH PAKISJAYA, KABUPATEN KARAWANG, PROVINSI JAWA BARAT

Abstract

Visual impairment in coastal areas is frequently overlooked due to limited access to eye care services and extreme environmental exposure. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of visual impairment among the community at the Ibnu Batutah Coastal Islamic Boarding School (Pondok Pesantren), Pakisjaya, Karawang Regency, West Java Province. This descriptive quantitative study utilized a cross-sectional design. Out of a target population of 307 people, a sample of 289 participants who met the inclusion criteria was obtained using a total sampling technique. Clinical data collection was conducted through visual acuity testing (Snellen chart), objective refraction (autorefractometer) and subjective refraction, screening for organic ocular abnormalities, and blood pressure measurements. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics to determine frequency distribution percentages.  The majority of respondents were emmetropic (81%), while the remaining 19% presented with ametropia (refractive error). The prevalence of presbyopia was found to be remarkably high, affecting 76% of the examined participants. Furthermore, 8% of the participants were identified as having suspected organic ocular abnormalities, including cataracts, pterygium, and conjunctivitis. Direct interventions were provided in the form of free corrective eyeglasses for those with ametropia and presbyopia, alongside medical referrals to secondary healthcare facilities for participants with suspected organic conditions.  There is a significant prevalence of refractive errors, presbyopia, and suspected ocular pathologies within this coastal boarding school community. Integrated periodic screening programs and the provision of visual aids are highly recommended to prevent decline in quality of life and to reduce avoidable blindness in coastal regions.