Data collection on avoidable blindness in Mali successfully completed

Eyes of the world coordinated the field data collection phase of the RAAB study (Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness) in the Mopti region throughout July, in collaboration with the National Eye Health Programme, the Regional Health Directorate and the technical teams involved, following the criteria and technical standards of the IAPB.

The data collection took place in a context marked by the rainy season, deteriorating access roads, long travel distances and security constraints that required increased vigilance. Before the teams were deployed, an operational assessment of the accessibility and security of the villages was carried out: of the 2,199 villages listed in Mopti, 1,166 were considered accessible and entered into a random selection process to choose the 49 sampling clusters covering the eight health districts: Mopti, Bandiagara, Douentza, Koro, Bankass, Djenné, Ténenkou and Youwarou.

Four teams were deployed, each consisting of an ophthalmologist, an Ophthalmic Medical Assistant (OMA) and a driver. Survey staff received prior training to ensure the successful implementation of the data collection and were supported by supervisory teams responsible for monitoring progress. The combination of field visits, remote supervision, daily reporting and monitoring through the RAAB7 platform proved crucial in ensuring the quality of the data.

A total of 1,921 people aged 50 years and over were examined, with a participation rate exceeding the expected threshold (98%). The initial results showed:

• A 5.8% prevalence of blindness.

• Cataract is the leading cause of blindness (70.3%).

• 96.4% of the blindness observed is considered avoidable.

• Cataract surgical coverage remains insufficient.

Based on the updated data, a comprehensive report will be prepared to define the next steps and recommended actions, including a communication plan tailored to the different stakeholders, dissemination of the results among the parties involved, and the development of a specific avoidable blindness reduction plan for the Mopti region.

This Eyes of Mali project is funded by the Government of Navarre.