AGE- AND GENDER-SPECIFIC PREVALENCE OF EYE DISEASES: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY (2015–2024)

Introduction. Eye diseases are major global public health issues causing significant vision loss, with disparities in access to care especially affecting low-income and minority populations. This study aims to assess the prevalence of eye diseases by age and gender in the East Kazakhstan region. Methods. Retrospective study analyzed eye disease cases from 2015 to 2024 in East Kazakhstan, focusing on ICD-10 codes H10-H13 (conjunctival diseases), H25-H28 (lens diseases including cataracts), H40-H42 (glaucoma), and H49-H52 (refractive errors). Prevalence rates per 100,000 were calculated, with absolute and relative changes assessed to identify significant trends using SPSS 21. Results. From 2015 to 2024, refractive errors (H49-H52) were the most common eye disorders in children (0–14) and adolescents (15–17), peaking in 2018, with girls generally showing higher rates. Conjunctival diseases (H10-H13) declined sharply in children and adolescents but fluctuated in teenagers. No lens diseases or glaucoma were reported in these groups. In adults (18+), lens diseases, especially cataracts, were most prevalent, with glaucoma increasing over time. Conjunctival diseases declined, while refractive disorders rose sharply in men but decreased in women. These trends highlight the need for targeted screening and eye care across all ages. Conclusion. Refractive errors dominated in youth, while adults faced more cataracts and glaucoma, with declining conjunctival diseases reflecting healthcare gains and rising refractive issues underscoring the need for targeted screening and prevention.