The Prevalence of Aphakia in the Civil Airman Population
Abstract
The Federal Aviation Administration allows civilian airmen with aphakia to fly with waivered certificates. This study analyzes the distribution of aphakia in the civil airman population by type (unilateral, bilateral), class of airman medical certificate, and gender for a 4-year period (1982-85). Medical records were evaluated for all certified airmen during the study period who were carrying pathology codes for aphakia and artificial lens implant. The percentage increase in the prevalence of aphakia was higher for bilateral, second-class certificate holders, and male aphakia. The incidence of total and unilateral aphakia declined during the last 2 years of the study period. Aphakia has become increasingly prevalent in the civil airman population. The increased application and modification of surgical procedures for cataract extraction, coupled with possible visual complications from these procedures in flight operations, strongly suggests continued specialized aeromedical certification and clinical research review.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA241032
Entities
People
- Faredoon K. Loochan
- Kathryn J. Wood
- Van B. Nakagawara
Organizations
- Federal Aviation Administration