A prospective study to evaluate the effectiveness of preventive aspects in relation to sports related ocular injuries

Ocular trauma, a major cause of visual morbidity and unilateral blindness globally, sees sports as a prominent contributor. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of preventive measures, combining health education and ocular protective devices, in reducing sports-induced ocular injuries over 5 years.

Conducted in a large military hospital in India, this prospective observational study spanned from January 2010 to December 2018. Preventive strategies included pre-participation eye examinations, health education targeting players, parents, and coaches, and the mandatory use of ocular protective gear. Ocular injuries were classified using The Birmingham Eye Trauma Terminology.

Over the study period, ocular injuries reduced significantly by more than 70%. The reduction was observed across various sports, with an 80% decrease in some. Notably, sports with compulsory ocular protection, such as swimming and squash, showed a 100% reduction in eye injuries (p < 0.01).

This study underscores the success of a combined approach involving health education and mandatory use of ocular protective gear in preventing sports-related ocular injuries. The results highlight the need for continued efforts, including governmental initiatives, to achieve the ultimate goal of 90% prevention and alleviate the burden on healthcare resources.