Prevalence and Determinants of Visual Impairment among Individuals Aged 40 Years and Above Attending Military Hospitals in Addis Ababa, 2025: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background Visual impairment (VI) remains a significant public health concern in Ethiopia, particularly among adults aged 40 years and above, where it is often attributable to preventable or treatable causes. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and determinants of VI among this population in military hospitals in Addis Ababa. Objective To determine the prevalence and identify associated factors of visual impairment among individuals aged 40 years and above attending selected military hospitals in Addis Ababa. Methods A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January 20 to February 20, 2025, involving 213 participants selected through systematic random sampling (every 8th eligible adult patient from the follow-up registry). Data were collected using structured questionnaires and standardized vision assessment tools. Descriptive statistics summarized demographic and clinical characteristics. Chi-square tests assessed associations between categorical variables and VI. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify significant predictors at a p-value < 0.05. Result The mean age of participants was 56 years (range 40–92), with 63% male and 46.5% retired. The prevalence of visual impairment was 51.6%. Major associated conditions included cataracts (33.8%), hypertension (29.1%), and diabetes mellitus (25.8%). Significant predictors of VI included older age, cataracts, glaucoma, refractive errors, diabetes mellitus, cigarette smoking, and difficulty watching television. Conclusion Visual impairment affects over half of the study population and is significantly associated with modifiable and age-related factors. Early detection and targeted eye care services are urgently needed for this high-risk group.