Epidemiology and socioeconomics.
Ophthalmologists should be responsible for a systemic collection of standardized data on the occurrence of eye injuries. Such a database is the key for designing prophylactic measures to successfully prevent ocular trauma. The USEIR model, whether reporting takes place over the Internet [www.USEIRonline.org www.WEIRonline.org (worldwide)] or on paper, has proved to be an efficient epidemiological tool. Use of this model in different countries has allowed making unbiased comparisons between regions or countries, highlighting injury patterns that may be different in different geographical areas, and pinpointing areas where prophylaxis (through legislation and public campaigns) appears most effective. Participation of all ophthalmologists who evaluate/treat patients with serious eye trauma is strongly encouraged.
Kuhn
Ferenc
F
United States Eye Injury Registry, Helen Keller Foundation for Research and Education, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL, USA. fkuhn@mindspring.com
Morris
Robert
R
Mester
Viktória
V
Witherspoon
C Douglas
CD
Mann
LoRetta
L
Maisiak
Richard
R
D005131:Eye Injuries / Q000453:epidemiology*; D006801:Humans; D012042:Registries; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology