A study of the real scenario of pediatric cataract and causes of delay in surgery at a tertiary care center in Western Uttar Pradesh

Abstract Purpose: The purpose of the study was to identify the risk factors, age, and pattern of presentation, causes of delay in presentation, and surgical intervention at a tertiary care center in Western Uttar Pradesh. Materials and Methods: This study was a cross-sectional, interview-based study conducted from July 2023 to June 2024. All pediatric patients (till 12 years of age) with congenital or developmental cataract presenting to the outpatient department were enrolled and examined. All secondary, traumatic, uveitic, and iatrogenic cataracts were excluded. Sociodemographic, clinical, and etiological data were collected. Causes for the delay in the presentation and surgery were documented. Results: Among 1688 pediatric patients screened, 84 (4.97%) were diagnosed with pediatric cataract. Most patients (60.7%) were male, with a majority (72.6%) in the 0–5 years age group. Bilateral cataracts were predominant (77.4%). The most common pattern of presentation was the presence of whitish opacity (43%). In 62% of cases, the cause was unknown (idiopathic). Most patients belonged to a lower socioeconomic status (60.7%) and rural areas (65.5%). Unawareness (34.5%) was the leading cause of delayed presentation, whereas delayed presentation itself accounted for most delays in surgery (56%). Conclusion: Pediatric cataract remains a significant cause of visual morbidity in Western Uttar Pradesh. Delayed presentation and socioeconomic barriers are primary causes of delayed surgery. Targeted public awareness and early screening programs are critical to reduce the burden.