The WHO definition of blindness (for certification and programme purposes) uses a presenting visual acuity threshold of:
- A < 6/60 in the better eye with best correction
- B < 6/60 in the better eye with presenting correction ✓
- C < 3/60 in the better eye with best correction
- D < 6/18 in the worse eye
Correct answer: B. < 6/60 in the better eye with presenting correction
Explanation
The revised WHO 2003 definition uses presenting visual acuity (PVA) — with the patient's current spectacle correction if worn — rather than best-corrected acuity (BCVA). Blindness is defined as PVA < 3/60 in the better eye, moderate visual impairment as 3/60 to < 6/18, and severe visual impairment as 6/60 to < 6/18. The Indian legal definition of blindness is slightly different (< 6/60 with glasses in the better eye). Global burden studies emphasise PVA because it includes uncorrected refractive error as a cause.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.