Work

An assessment of recycled spectacles donated to a developing country

Year: 2006

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: A rapid assessment methodology was used to determine the suitability of donated recycled spectacles for the Pacific nation of Tuvalu. METHODS: Spectacles (102) from a donated cache were examined. Those with astigmatism of > 1.00 D, anisometropia of > 0.50 D, significant central lens scratches, broken frame, poor cosmetic fit and comfort, or unsuitable frame appearance were excluded. The refractive errors (> or = +/-0.50 D distance or near) of 320 Tuvaluans were determined. RESULTS: Of the spectacles, 62.7% had > 1.00 DC and/or > 0.50 D anisometropia, 30% were broken and/or scratched and 50% were uncomfortable or cosmetically unacceptable. Only 13% were optically satisfactory, physically intact, and cosmetically appropriate. Of the people, 8.8% had > 1.00 DC and/or > 0.50 D anisometropia, requiring custom-made spectacles. A further 8.1% needed a -0.50 to -2.00 DS correction, for which there were no spectacles in this cache. For the other 83.1% (266), if the cache contained at least 5538 spectacles, each would eventually find a suitable pair. CONCLUSION: If the scheme to Tuvalu is typical, refractive error will remain largely uncorrected if only donated recycled spectacles are available. No amount of efficiency and effectiveness in the delivery chain can justify the output and outcome of this recycling scheme.

Source: Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology

DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-9071.2006.01306.x

Authors: Jacqueline Ramke, Renee Du Toit, Garry Brian

Institutions: Vision Cooperative Research Centre, Fred Hollows Foundation

Language: English

Topic: Ophthalmology and Visual Impairment Studies

Subfield: Ophthalmology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funder: Australian Government