Demand incidence and episode rates of ophthalmic disease in a defined urban population

Abstract

Objectives: To estimate demand incidence and episode rates of ophthalmic disease in a defined urban population over one year.

Design: Study of patients presenting with eye problems to general practice and eye casualty department.

Setting: General practice and ophthalmic services in west Nottingham.

Subjects: 36,018 people from the combined practice lists of 17 Nottingham general practitioners.

Main outcome measures: Ophthalmic disorder, age and sex of patient, and where presented.

Results: 587 consultations were recorded for ophthalmic problems, 1771 with general practitioners and 816 with eye casualty. Most consultations to general practice were by females (1066 (60%)), whereas men aged 15-44 accounted for most work in eye casualty. These men commonly presented with trauma. Infective conjunctivitis, the commonest condition, had an episode rate of 13.5/1000 population/year. Demand incidence for cataracts was 1.9/1000 population/year. Demand incidence for chronic conditions increased with age.

Conclusions: As the average age of the population increases demand for ophthalmic services will rise. Planning and provision of resources to meet this increased demand should be considered now.