A DECADE-LONG DYNAMICS AND TERRITORIAL DIFFERENCES IN CATARACT MORBIDITY IN AZERBAIJAN, 2016-2025

Authors:

Abstract:

The study is based on official medical statistics and population data of the Republic of Azerbaijan for the period 2016-2025, accounting for gender, age, and territorial distribution. The absolute number of registered and newly diagnosed cases was determined, as well as prevalence and incidence rates per 100.000 corresponding population. Linear regression analysis was used to calculate the regression coefficient, 95 % confidence interval, R², and significance level; differences between adjacent years were assessed using Pearson’s χ² test. The study established an increase in prevalence over the study period by 70.8 % (from 16.850 to 28.783 cases) and a 3.6-fold increase in incidence (from 4.402 to 15.867 cases). A significant positive trend (p<0.001) with a sharp rise in 2022 was identified. Statistically significant territorial (an increase in the share of Baku from 28.4 % to 43.5 %, p=0.011) and gender (female predominance, p<0.001) differences were established. The obtained results indicate an increasing burden of cataract with pronounced territorial and gender-age heterogeneity, which must be considered when planning ophthalmological care.

Keywords:

cataract prevalence incidence epidemiology Azerbaijan territorial distribution gender differences

References:

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Publication:

«World of Medicine and Biology» Vol. 22 No. 97 (2026), pp. 19-23
UDC 617.741-004.1- 053.8

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26724/2079-8334-2026-3-97-19-23