Prevalence Of Ocular And Systemic Disease In The Native Population In Pawnee, OK.

Background: This research study evaluates the systemic and ocular manifestations of the general population in Pawnee, Oklahoma. Many systemic diseases including diabetes and hypertension have a higher incidence in this population compared to the general public. High levels of astigmatism, greater than two diopters, also have a higher
incidence in Native Americans when compared to the general population. Methods:
Information from the patient history was collected from 629 patients ranging in age of 21
to 94. Collection occurred while on rotation at the Pawnee Indian Health Service in
Pawnee, OK in December 2012. Each patient underwent a comprehensive eye
examination including dilation. Results: A cross-sectional study was performed from the information received in the patient history and during fundus examination. The prevalence of systemic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension were 38.8% and 55.5%. High levels of astigmatism, greater than or equal to two diopters, was 12.4%. Conclusions: The Native American population in Pawnee, OK has a high incidence of
diabetes, diabetic retinopathy, hypertension, and high levels of astigmatism. These rates
are higher than the average norms in the United States. Preventative programs should be established in this community to increase the health and awareness of this population.