Assessment of community participation and sociodemographic conditions in the detection of congenital eye malformations in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, Oaxaca, Mexico

This study focused on the detection and analysis of congenital eye diseases in the communities of Salina Cruz and Juchitán de Zaragoza, located in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec region, Oaxaca, Mexico. The study population included twenty possible cases, of which only seven met the specific criteria established for the study, ensuring the validity of the results. The region is characterized by its predominantly Zapotec cultural diversity and a high percentage of indigenous language speakers, which meant that interpreters were needed for effective communication during interviews with the parents or guardians of the affected children. Sociodemographic questionnaires were administered to thirty-four participants, noting that most are engaged in domestic work and have varying levels of education, ranging from no schooling to postgraduate degrees. The collaboration of medical specialists in ophthalmology was essential for the diagnosis and appropriate selection of cases. The study highlights the importance of addressing cultural and linguistic barriers in public health research, as well as the ethical commitment to encourage community participation. These findings provide a solid basis for future interventions aimed at improving the detection, prevention, and management of congenital eye diseases in this multi-ethnic region of Oaxaca, Mexico.