Prevalence of convergence insufficiency between 18 and 35 years and its relation to body mass index

Abstract

Background: Convergence insufficiency (CI) is a common condition characterized by patient's inability to maintain binocular alignment on objects as they approach from distance to near. One study has found association between low body mass index (BMI) and CI. The purpose of this study is to find the prevalence of CI and its association with BMI among patients aged 18–35 years. Subjects and Methods: In a prospective study, we recorded convergence among individuals aged 18–35 years. We defined CI as near point of convergence of >10 cm, exophoria greater for near than distance, and positive fusional vergence of <18 ΔD. The prevalence of CI was expressed as percentage of the population. BMI was calculated. We calculated the association between CI and BMI by Chi-square test. P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: We studied 142 individuals (male: 61 and female: 81). CI was noted in 27.5% of population; 53.84% of these were symptomatic as per symptom survey questionnaire. The average BMI of the study population was 23.78 ± 4.68. No association was found between BMI and CI (P = 0.773). Conclusions: Among 18–35 years of age, 27.5% of individuals exhibited CI. CI and BMI did not show any association.