Community-Based Research: NYC-SIGHT Study

Manhattan Vision Screening and Follow-up Study

The Manhattan Vision Screening and Follow-up Study  is a community-based clinical trial to identify and implement innovative strategies to engage populations who need access to eye care. The 5-year study is funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and aims to improve engagement, early detection, and management of glaucoma, vision impairment, cataracts, and other eye diseases for New York City residents living in affordable housing developments and those attending senior centers in upper Manhattan. 

By partnering with New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) and the New York City Department for the Aging (DFTA), Columbia Ophthalmology is offering on-site eye health screening to residents aged 40+ and older adults 60+ living at 10 NYCHA developments (Polo Grounds, Rangel Houses, Drew-Hamilton, Lincoln Houses, St-Nicholas, Bethune Gardens, Marshall Plaza, Audubon, Public School 139, and 99 Ft. Washington). 

Our experienced team will check vision, eye pressure, and take photographs of the back of the eye so our ophthalmologists can look remotely at the retina and optic nerve. Anyone who does not pass the vision screening will be schedule for an on-site eye exam by our study optometrist. Depending on which group assignment, residents will be given an eyeglasses prescription or free eyeglasses if they need them. Anyone with abnormal findings during the vision screening or eye exam will be referred for follow-up at Columbia Ophthalmology or Harlem Hospital Ophthalmology.

If you are interested in learning more about the study results, call our call center at 325-241-9369 or send an email with your name and phone number to sm4863@cumc.columbia.edu.