The aim of this study was to compile the available literature reporting the prevalence of strabismus in Pakistan and calculate the pooled prevalence of strabismus in the Pakistan population. Meta analysis was conducted with 10 studies with a total of 71,677 individuals, of which 628 had strabismus, aged 3–18 years, with 56.4% male and 43.6% female. Pooled prevalence was 0.7% (95% CI 0.39–1.23%). Sub types included 59.5% esotropia, 32.9% exotropia, and 76% vertical. The apparent prevalence of strabismus decreased over time from 1991 to 2020 but was not statistically significant. Overall, the authors report a lower prevalence than other Western countries but similar rates to North Indian populations with esotropia more prevalent than exotropia. The global trend is for a decrease in strabismus. This was noted in this study but was not significant and may reflect the low number of studies included in the meta-analysis. The authors acknowledge the study may underestimate prevalence as included studies were in traditional school settings so excluded ages 0–4 years and also excluded children with developmental disabilities where strabismus rates are higher. Further research is needed to explore these rates.
Strabismus prevalence in a Pakistan population
Reviewed by Fiona Rowe
Prevalence of strabismus in Pakistan: a systematic review and meta-analysis.
CONTRIBUTOR
Fiona Rowe (Prof)
Institute of Population Health, University of Liverpool, UK.
View Full Profile
