CHAPTER ONE 18 sections of this report could be read, and readers ·with a wide variety of backgrounds may be interested in the findings. For ex- ample, those unfamiliar with the problems of blindness, the Nepal Blindness Prevention Program, or the Kingdom of Nepal, may find the introductory materials presented in Chapter 1, Sections 1.1 and 1.2, useful. Readers not familiar with survey methods, and those interested in an overview of the purposes and methods of the sur- vey, should read Section 1.3 before reading more substantive discussions on findings. Familiarity with the limitations and nature of inferences from survey samples such as the NBS is important to developing a proper understanding of the quality and meaning of various findings. Those more familiar with survey methods and those contemplat- ing the design of a blindness or other health survey in a developing country may find Chapter 2, which deals with the design and im- plementation of the NBS, of some interest. Chapter 2 includes a review of data management activities and the findings on quality of data from a special study of observer reliability. It is recommended that most first-time readers of the report review at least the basic description of the survey population in Chapter 3 before examining particular visual impairment, blind- ness, or cause- specific findings in Chapters 6-9. They may also find it useful to read the introductory materials in Chapter 1. It is difficult to specify the appropriate sequence of sections and chapters for every possible reader interest and background. In- stead, a few recommended sequences are suggested for those needing an overview of the entire report: (1) An ophthalmologist or medical specialist unfamiliar with sur- vey methods and interested in one disease or one set of cause- specific findings (e.g., cataract) probably should at least read Chapter 1, Chapter 3, and Chapter 5, in addition to the chapter concerning whichever disease is of interest. (2) A survey research specialist interested in the design of blind- ness of other health surveys in a developing country should read Chapter 1, Section 1.3, and Chapter 2, Chapter 3, and Chapter 5. (3) An epidemiologist interested in certain cause-specific findings and familiar with survey methods should read Chapter 1, Section 1.3, Chapter 3, Chapter 5, and the cause-specific findings of inter- est. (4) Programme-planning personnel or health administrators un- familiar with survey methods should read Chapter 1, Section 1.3, Chapter 3, Chapter 5, and the appropriate cause-specific findings chapters. The projected need for cataract surgery in Nepal in Chap-
