Distribution of color vision deficiency among school children in Moradabad District, India: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Purpose: This cross-sectional study aimed to estimate the prevalence and distribution of color vision deficiency (CVD) among school children aged 6–16 in the Moradabad district of Uttar Pradesh, India. Methods: Between November 1, 2022, and March 31, 2023, a multidisciplinary team conducted school-based eye screening camps, screening 1329 students from four schools. The screening included visual acuity measurement, refraction, ocular alignment evaluation, and Ishihara’s plate test for CVD. Results: Ocular examinations conducted on 1329 students from four schools unveiled a range of ocular conditions. These included bilateral moderate ptosis in 0.1%, nystagmus in 0.1%, hypermetropia in 0.6%, myopia in 7.0%, astigmatism in 2.8%, and pseudophakic in 0.1% of students. The study identified CVD in 2.4% of participants (2.8% of males and 2.2% of females). Further breakdown revealed a 2.4% prevalence on the right and 1.5% on the left, with red and green color vision deficiencies observed. Notably, primary education, middle education, and secondary education levels showed CVD prevalence of 0.4%, 0.97%, and 0.97%, respectively. Conclusion: The study contributes valuable insights into ocular morbidities, emphasizing the prevalence of CVD among school children in the Moradabad district. The findings underscore the need for tailored interventions, early screening, and awareness campaigns to address the specific needs of affected children in diverse geographical and educational settings.