Prevalence Of Keratoconus In Russia: The K-Map Multicenter Study
Published 2026 - 44th Congress of the ESCRS
Reference: POCOR402 | Type: Free paper | DOI: 10.82333/ct5s-6972
Authors: Dr Emilio A. Torres-Netto* 1 , Prof. Dr Farhad Hafezi 1 , Dr Mark Hillen 1 , Mr Léonard Kollros 2 , Mrs Nikki L. Hafezi 1 , Dr Jost B. Jonas 3 , Dr Gyulli M. Kazakbaeva 4 , Prof. Mukharram M. Bikbov 4 , Dr Michalina L. Depczyńska 1
1Ophthalmology,ELZA Institute,Zurich,Switzerland, 2Optometry,ELZA Institute,Zurich,Switzerland, 3Ophthalmology,Rothschild Foundation Hospital,Paris,France;Singapore Eye Research Institute,Singapore National Eye Center,Singapore,Singapore;Tsinghua Medicine,Tsinghua Changgung Hospital,Beijing,China;Ophthalmology,L V Prasad Eye Institute,Hyderabad,India, 4Ufa Eye Research Institute,Bashkir State Medical University,Ufa,Russian Federation
Purpose
To describe the methodology, study design and preliminary results of the K-MAP (Keratoconus Mapping and Prevalence) Study, a multicenter epidemiological trial investigating the prevalence of keratoconus in Russia using modern diagnostic technology.
Setting
A population-based study conducted at the Ufa Eye Research Institute, Ufa, Russia, as part of a global K-MAP initiative.
Methods
This is a prospective, observational, population-based study enrolling participants across various age groups. Keratoconus diagnosis is based on a predefined threshold of steep keratometry (≥48 D) as measured by Scheimpflug imaging (Pentacam HR, Oculus, Germany). A comprehensive ophthalmic examination is performed, including refractive error assessment, corneal topography, and tomographic analysis. Data are systematically recorded and analyzed to determine the prevalence of keratoconus and its associations with demographic and ocular parameters. Statistical analysis is conducted using binary regression models to identify significant risk factors.
Results
Data collection is ongoing. Prevalence rates, risk factors, and associations of keratoconus in the Russian population will be presented at the meeting.
Conclusions
The K-MAP study represents the first large-scale epidemiological investigation of keratoconus in Russia, utilizing standardized, modern imaging technology. Similar studies, such as one conducted in Saudi Arabia, have reported a higher prevalence of keratoconus than previously recognized, suggesting potential geographical and ethnic variations in disease occurrence. Our findings will contribute to a better understanding of regional prevalence and inform early detection strategies for keratoconus. Identifying regional variations in keratoconus prevalence is crucial for developing targeted public health policies and allocating resources effectively.