Ocular Morbidity among Orphans and Vulnerable Children Living in Shelters in Ibadan Metropolis

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Background: Globally, orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) represent a significant population at risk of poor health as well as a high risk of developing ocular disorders. These ocular disorders could lead to childhood visual impairment or blindness if left undetected or untreated. This study therefore focuses on ocular morbidity among OVC living in shelter facilities to provide relevant data for planning eye care interventions. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among OVC ages 5–16 years living within shelter facilities in Ibadan, Oyo State. Sociodemographic characteristics were obtained. Ocular examinations, including visual acuity measurements, colour vision test, Hirschberg test, anterior and posterior segments assessment, and cycloplegic refraction were conducted. Descriptive and inferential analysis was done with IBM SPSS Statistics version 24. All analyses were at 5% level of statistical significance. Results: A total of 497 eligible OVC participated in the study. The mean age was 11 ± 3.4 years, and 263 (52.9%) were males. The prevalence of ocular morbidity was 18.1%. The most common types of ocular morbidity were refractive errors 47 (9.5%) and allergic conjunctivitis 18 (3.6%), with more females affected by both conditions, 28 (59%) and 11 (61%), respectively. Ocular morbidity was most common (28.3%) among the 14–16 years age group (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Refractive errors and allergic conjunctivitis, which are treatable ocular conditions, were the most common ocular morbidities among these children. Regular eye screening as well as the provision of quality and affordable eye care services is advocated for this vulnerable population of children.