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Barriers to the uptake of cataract surgical services in Sudan: A population based study in Kassala State

Aim: To determine the barriers to cataract surgery as reported by those with cataract-induced visual impairment in Kassala state, eastern Sudan. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional, population-based survey of people aged 50 years and older. Around 2146 eligible people were identified and 2050 examined (95.5%). Participants with cataract-induced visual impairment (acuity <6/18 in better eye) were also invited to respond to a verbal questionnaire about barriers to cataract surgery. Results: Main barriers for not up-taking cataract surgery services were inability to afford (45.7%), unaware of treatment (14.2%), waiting for maturity (7.1%), contra-indication (7.1%) and unavailability of services (6.3%). Conclusion: Cost and lack of awareness are the most frequent barriers in Kassala state.