Prevalence of visual conditions among orphaned children in Togo.

BACKGROUND

Visual impairments in children can significantly impact their development.

AIM: To assess the prevalence of visual conditions among Togolese orphaned children.

SUBJECTS AND

METHODS

A total of 673 orphans of Sub-Saharan African descent, aged 1 month to 23 years, from 17 orphanages in Lomé and surrounding areas were examined between October 2021 and April 2025. Eye assessments included the use of an otoscope, ophthalmoscope, LEA symbol chart (for children aged 3), and E-hook chart (for children >3). Diagnosed conditions were confirmed through specialist referrals when necessary.

RESULTS

Visual conditions were identified in 109 children (16.2%), of whom 61 (56.0%) were referred to ophthalmology for further evaluation. Fifty were diagnosed with a single ocular condition, while 11 had multiple conditions. These were most commonly combinations of ametropia with conjunctival disorders or glaucoma. In total, 73 ocular conditions were identified within this group, with ametropia being the most prevalent (n = 40, 54.8%), particularly astigmatism.

CONCLUSION

Visual conditions were common among Togolese orphaned children. Although not formally studied, the findings support the integration of routine visual screening into early childhood health programs and school entry assessments to prevent or treat visual conditions with appropriate care.