Prevalence Of Refractive Errors Research Articles

Prevalence of visual impairment and estimation of refractive errors among school children in Kakamega, Kenya.

To investigate the prevalence of visual impairment (VI) and provide an estimation of uncorrected refractive errors in school-aged children, conducted by optometry students as a community service. The study was cross-sectional. Totally 3343 participants were included in the study. The initial examination involved assessing the uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) and visual acuity (VA) while using a +2.00 D lens. The inclusion criteria for a subsequent comprehensive cycloplegic eye examination, performed by an optometrist, were as follows: a UDVA<0.6 decimal (0.20 logMAR) and/or a VA with +2.00 D ≥0.8 decimal (0.96 logMAR). The sample had a mean age of 10.92±2.13y (range 4 to 17y), and 51.3% of the children were female (n=1715). The majority of the children (89.7%) fell within the age range of 8 to 14y. Among the ethnic groups, the highest representation was from the Luhya group (60.6%) followed by Luo (20.4%). Mean logMAR UDVA choosing the best eye for each student was 0.29±0.17 (range 1.70 to 0.22). Out of the total, 246 participants (7.4%) had a full eye examination. The estimated prevalence of myopia (defined as spherical equivalent ≤-0.5 D) was found to be 1.45% of the total sample. While around 0.18% of the total sample had hyperopia value exceeding +1.75 D. Refractive astigmatism (cil<-0.75 D) was found in 0.21% (7/3343) of the children. The VI prevalence was 1.26% of the total sample. Among our cases of VI, 76.2% could be attributed to uncorrected refractive error. Amblyopia was detected in 0.66% (22/3343) of the screened children. There was no statistically significant correlation observed between age or gender and refractive values. The primary cause of VI is determined to be uncorrected refractive errors, with myopia being the most prevalent refractive error observed. These findings underscore the significance of early identification and correction of refractive errors in school-aged children as a means to alleviate the impact of VI.

Refractive Error of the Elderly Presenting to a University Eye Clinic

The prevalence of refractive errors varies by age and gender and is closely related to functional difficulties, ocular diseases, and decreased quality of life. The purpose of this study was to assess associations of age and gender with refractive errors of the elderly presenting at a university clinic. Retrospective review of medical records of elderly patients presenting for eye services in 2020-2021. Demographic, ocular disease and refractive data were collected and analyzed. The number of 1,452 patients aged 60 and over with a mean age of 69.6 ± 8.09 years (range 60 to 101 years) were included. The prevalence of myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and anisometropia was 22.4%, 36.5%, 22.7%, and 19.4%, respectively. Compared to those aged 80 and above, myopia increased 5.171 times in those 60-69 yrs and 4.930 times among those 70-79 yrs. Men were significantly more likely to have myopia than women (p&lt;0.001). Hyperopia was significantly less prevalent in those aged 70-79 and aged 80 and above compared to those aged 60-69 (p&lt;0.001). Gender was not associated with hyperopia (p=0.066). The prevalence of astigmatism and anisometropia was higher in older subjects. Astigmatism shifted from with-the-rule (WTR) to against-the-rule (ATR) with age. Astigmatism had no gender difference, but anisometropia was more common in women. Most anisometropia was due to refractive error. Rates of myopia and hyperopia decreased with age while astigmatism increased with age. Thai optometrists need to be aware that refractive error in the elderly is not stationary and frequent changes in spectacle power may be needed.

Prevalence of Refractive Errors Among Medical Students of Raichur Institute of Medical Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka, India.

Introduction Refractive errors (REs) are on the rise among medical students due to the high academic pressure of long hours of reading and their association with close technology. Uncorrected REs cause impaired vision and blindness with considerable morbidity. Documenting the prevalence of REs among medical students helps with early detection and appropriate remedial measures to prevent eye morbidity. Aim The aim of the study was to find the prevalence of REs among medical students at Raichur Institute of Medical Sciences, a medical institution in Raichur City, Karnataka, India. Methodology This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted with a total of 425 medical students. An examination of the eye for REs was carried out using a streak retinoscope. The REs were noted in myopia <-0.5 diopters (D), hypermetropia >+0.5 D, and astigmatism >0.5 cylinder D. The data was statistically subjected. Categorical measurements have been presented as frequency (percentage). The chi-square test was applied to the association between the parameters. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Among the 425 observed participants, 160 (37.6%) subjects had REs. Among the REs in the total population, myopia 78 (18.4%) was the most prevalent, followed by hypermetropia and astigmatism, both with 41 (9.6%) and 41 (9.6%) prevalence, respectively. Gender-wise and age-wise, myopia was highly prevalent in both genders and in all age groups except the 20 years age group. Conclusion The prevalence of REs in our study among medical students is a matter of concern, although it is less compared to other previous studies in different geographical areas of India. Regular checkups, early detection, and immediate treatment are very important to prevent further ocular complications.

Ocular morbidity profiles of out-of-school children in a North Indian urban slum.

This study evaluates the recent trends in ocular morbidities and vision-related practices in "out-of-school" children in urban slums of Gurugram in North India. In this observational study, a validated questionnaire was administered to 161 students from two nonformal slum schools. Sociocultural, demographic data, vision-related practices, and visual acuity with subjective refraction of the children were recorded. A total of 80 boys and 81 girls (9.17 ± 2.58 years) participated in this study. About 40% of the children were from lower socioeconomic status. The visual acuity recorded for all the children, except three children, was 6/6 in both eyes. One child had a pre-phthisical eye with no light perception, following a childhood trauma, with the other eye having 6/6 vision. Two children had refractive errors (myopia and compound myopic astigmatism), with a best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 6/6. Thirteen children (8%) had Bitot's spots and 67 (35.4%) had allergic conjunctivitis. Eight (5%) children complained of dry eye-related symptoms like redness and watering of eyes, while 19 (11.8%) had diffuse headache. Average number of years spent in school for these children was less than 1.7 years (range: 1 month-6 years). Only 10.5% of the children gave the history of watching television more than 30 h/week. Significant association was found between the income of father and use of digital devices in children below 10 years (P = 0.003) and children playing outdoors (P = 0.001). There was a significant association noted for age and use of digital devices (P = 0.037). The prevalence of refractive errors in "out-of-school" children of urban slum was much less than the national average. Almost one in three children suffered from eye allergies, while 8% children had Bitot's spots. The data about the prevalence of ocular comorbidities in underserved areas like urban slums can be used to update and strategize eye health-care delivery models for out-of-school children.

PRESERVING THE HEALTH OF THE ORGAN OF VISION IN CHILDREN: ORGANIZATIONAL PRINCIPLES

Background. The relevance of the study is due to the growing prevalence of ophthalmic pathology among children, in particular, the growing prevalence of refractive errors in early and older adolescence. The results of scientific research prove the presence of a direct correlation between the growth of the prevalence of ophthalmic pathology and the growth of the child's age and the amount of visual stress, which is primarily related to the educational process during school education. The effective organization of medical care should take into account modern medical and preventive technologies of early preventive intervention, as well as be comprehensive with the involvement of medical specialists (pediatric ophthalmologists, family doctors) and educators, family members, parents of the child for effective support and leveling of managed risk factors for the development of ophthalmic pathology.&#x0D; Aim: to study the modern organizational principles of preserving the health of eye care of children, to clarify the medical and social aspects of the formation of the burden of ophthalmic pathology from childhood in different countries of the world.&#x0D; Materials and methods. The materials for the research were publications of the results of modern scientific research on the study of medical and social aspects of preserving the ophthalmic health of children, the peculiarities of the organization of providing medical and preventive care to children with visual impairments. The methods for carrying out scientific research were: system approach and system analysis, as well as content analysis.&#x0D; Results of the study prove the prospects for the implementation of medical and preventive strategies in the provision of primary and specialized ophthalmic medical care, in view of the significant medical and social burden of ophthalmopathology, the distribution of nosologies by class of diseases of the eye and its accessory apparatus, which are most often found in certain age groups of the children's population, is presented. It has been proven that compliance with the optimal periodicity of medical and preventive examinations is necessary for the majority of ophthalmological nosologies diagnosed since childhood and involves long-term supervision. In children of preschool, preschool and early school age, efforts at early prevention and diagnosis of such ophthalmological nosologies as: refraction anomalies (astigmatism, hypermetropia, myopia) are justified. strabismus and amblyopia; accommodation disorders; lack of convergence. Untreated or untimely detected refraction anomaly, strabismus, amblyopia can lead to the development of irreversible loss of visual functions, blindness and even inhibition of the formation of the visual system with distorted perception of visual information, which without timely correction lead to the appearance of complications, progression of strabismus, decrease in visual acuity, amblyopia , asthenopia, headache and deterioration of general well-being.&#x0D; Conclusion. The important medico-social importance of disorders of visual functions in childhood is a serious problem for the health care system, public health and ophthalmology service, in particular. Reasoned expediency of applying measures to level the managed risk factors against the background of intersectoral interaction of doctors, educators, the child himself and his family. This approach allows you to prevent the negative impact of ophthalmic pathology on academic performance, activate physical development, and promote harmonious personality development.

Factors that influence refractive errors in premature infants

Background The prevalence of refractive errors is reported to be higher in children born preterm. Factors such as gestational age, birth weight, and retinopathy of prematurity status, have a significant impact on the refractive development in preterm infants. Prematurity and low birth weight affect the development of organ systems in infants, including the eyes. In addition to immature retinas, other eye conditions, such as refractive status, are also observed. This study aimed to determine the risk factors of refractive status, specifically refractive errors (spherical equivalent, astigmatism, and anisometropia) in premature infants at a tertiary hospital in Bali. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted involving 53 premature infants. This study collected samples from January to August 2023 at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of Prof. dr. IGNG Ngoerah General Hospital. Data regarding gender, gestational age, birth weight, retinal condition, spherical equivalent, and refractive disorders were collected. The relationship between risk factors and spherical equivalent, astigmatism, and anisometropia were analyzed using multiple regression analysis with statistical significance set at p&lt;0.05. ResultsHypermetropia is the most common finding in premature infants, followed by myopia and astigmatism. The prevalence of myopia (9.4%) and astigmatism (5.7%) is also more common among newborns of gestational age ≤30 weeks (p=0.024). Chronological age was significantly associated with spherical equivalent (β=0.424; p=0.019). ConclusionIn premature infants, chronological age was the risk factor of spherical equivalent. Other risk factors were not associated with the prevalence of refractive errors among premature infants.

Prevalence and associated factors of refractive error among adults in South Ethiopia, a community-based cross-sectional study.

The increasing prevalence of refractive error has become a serious health issue that needs serious attention. However, there are few studies regarding the prevalence and associated factors of refractive error at the community level in Ethiopia as well as in the study area. Therefore, providing updated data is crucial to reduce the burdens of refractive error in the community. To assess the prevalence and associated factors of refractive error among adults in Hawassa City, South Ethiopia, 2023. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 951 adults using a multistage sampling technique from May 8 to June 8, 2023, in Hawassa City, South Ethiopia. A pretested, structured questionnaire combined with an ocular examination and a refraction procedure was used to collect data. The collected data from the Kobo Toolbox was exported to a statistical package for social sciences for analysis. Binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant in the multivariable analysis. A total of 894 study participants were involved in this study with a 94.1% response rate. The prevalence of refractive error was 12.3% (95% CI: 10.2, 14.5%). Regular use of electronic devices (adjusted odds ratio = 3.64, 95% CI: 2.25, 5.91), being diabetic (adjusted odds ratio = 4.02, 95% CI: 2.16, 7.48), positive family history of refractive error (adjusted odds ratio = 2.71, 95% CI 1.59, 4.61) and positive history of cataract surgery (adjusted odds ratio = 5.17, 95% CI 2.19, 12.4) were significantly associated with refractive error. The overall magnitude of refractive error in our study area was high. Regular use of electronic devices, being diabetic, positive family history of refractive error, and a positive history of cataract surgery were associated with refractive error.

Understanding Vision Impairment: A Comprehensive Study of Uncorrected Refractive Errors among Primary School Teachers and Pupils in Nongowa Chiefdom, Kenema District, Sierra Leone

Introduction: Uncorrected Refractive Error (URE) is a major concern globally, particularly in developing nations like Sierra Leone, where limited access to eye care services poses challenges. Aim: This study, conducted in Nongowa Chiefdom, Kenema District, Sierra Leone, aimed to investigate the prevalence of URE and associated knowledge, attitudes, and practices among primary school pupils and teachers. Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional designs, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative methods were used. A structured survey questionnaire and visual acuity screening tools were used to assess uncorrected refractive errors among 692 randomly selected participants, data analysis involved descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis. Results: The study involved 374 pupils and 318 teachers from 145 public and 14 private schools, uncorrected refractive error prevalence was 66%, with hypermetropia most prevalent and blindness at 0.13%. Girls contributed 29% of cases compared to boys' 25%. Ages 5-17 were most affected. Public schools accounted for 91% of cases, with peri-urban areas contributing 24% and urban areas 76%. Economic status and education influenced prevalence. Teachers played a crucial role in promoting eye health education. Economic factors may have influenced observed differences in refractive errors. Conclusion: The study highlighted the multifaceted nature of URE, involving demographic, economic, and educational factors. Addressing these complexities through targeted interventions is crucial for mitigating the burden of visual impairment in the region.

Potential causal associations between leisure sedentary behaviors, physical activity, sleep traits, and myopia: a Mendelian randomization study

BackgroundMyopia is the most prevalent refractive error and a growing global health concern that significantly affects visual function. Researchers have recently emphasized considerably on the influence of lifestyle on myopia incidence and development. This study investigates the relationship between leisure sedentary behaviors (LSB)/physical activity (PA)/sleep traits and myopia.MethodsLSB, PA, and sleep trait-associated genetic variants were used as instrument variables in a Mendelian randomization (MR) study to examine their causal effects on myopia. Summary genome-wide association studies (GWASs) statistical data for LSB and PA were obtained from UK Biobank, and the data of sleep traits was obtained from UK Biobank, UK Biobank and 23andMe, and FinnGen. We used summary statistics data for myopia from MRC IEU. The MR analyses was performed using the inverse variance-weighted (IVW), MR-Egger, weighted median, and MR Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier methods.ResultsComputer use was genetically predicted to increase the myopia risk [IVW odds ratio (OR) = 1.057; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.038–1.078; P = 7.04 × 10− 9]. The self-reported moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) (IVW OR = 0.962; 95% CI, 0.932–0.993; P = 1.57 × 10− 2) and television watching (IVW OR = 0.973; 95% CI, 0.961–0.985, P = 1.93 × 10− 5) were significantly associated with a lower myopia risk. However, genetically predicted sleep traits or accelerometer-measured physical activity had no significant associations with myopia.ConclusionOur results indicated that computer use is a risk factor for myopia, whereas television watching and MVPA may protect against myopia. These findings shed new light on possible strategies for reducing the prevalence of myopia.

Prevalence and causes of blindness and distance visual impairment in Chinese adult population in 2022 during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study

This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the prevalence and causes of visual impairment (VI) and blindness in Jiangsu Province, China in 2022 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants (n = 13,208, aged 18–93) underwent comprehensive ocular examinations. The prevalence and causes of binocular VI (presenting visual acuity [VA] ≥ 20/400 and < 20/63 in the better eye) and blindness (presenting VA < 20/400 in the better eye) were assessed according to the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. The estimation of refractive error prevalence was conducted using the following classification: myopia ≤ − 0.50 diopters (D), high myopia ≤ − 6.00 D, hyperopia ≥ 0.50 D, and anisometropia ≥ 1.00 D. The overall prevalence of binocular VI and blindness was 21.04% (95% confidence interval [CI] 20.35–21.74%) and 0.47% (95% CI 0.37–0.60%). The highest prevalence of binocular VI was in the population aged 18–24 years old (46.29%, [95% CI 44.30–48.28%]), those with education at university and above (43.47%, [95% CI 41.93–45.02%]), students (54.96%, [95% CI 52.73–57.17%]). Uncorrected refractive error (URE) was the leading cause of presenting binocular VI (93.40%) and blindness (50.79%). The prevalence of myopia was 54.75% (95% CI 53.90–55.60%). Actions are needed to control URE and myopia within the adult Chinese population, with a particular emphasis on the younger, well-educated demographic.

Impact of stimulant treatment on refractive errors and pupil diameter in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

AbstractPurposeThe relationship between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and visual impairment remains poorly understood, and the impact of visual impairment on the development of ADHD is uncertain. The aim of this study was to investigate the refractive profile and ocular biometric characteristics in patients diagnosed with ADHD and compare them with a control group. Additionally, we aimed to explore the potential influence of sex and medication intake.MethodsA cohort of 100 participants, including 50 individuals with ADHD and 50 age‐ and sex‐matched control subjects, was included in this study. Ocular biometric parameters were measured, and refractive error was assessed using cycloplegic and non‐cycloplegic autorefraction. Subgroup analyses were performed within the ADHD group based on sex, medication intake and age to investigate potential associations with the ocular findings.ResultsWe observed no statistically significant differences in axial length, corneal topography parameters or anterior chamber characteristics between ADHD and control subjects. However, subgroup analysis within the ADHD group revealed that the prevalence of ametropia under cycloplegia was significantly higher in unmedicated (69.6%) compared to medicated (37.5%) (X2(2) = 7.320, p = 0.026) participants. Pupil diameter was significantly larger in medicated (3.91 mm) compared to unmedicated (3.58 mm; p = 0.017) individuals. Males had flatter (p = 0.004) and thicker (p = 0.008) corneas than females. Older ADHD participants had higher refractive error (p = 0.008 for non‐cycloplegic and p = 0.0.003 for cycloplegic), axial length (p = 0.002) and corneal astigmatism (p = 0.049).ConclusionsOur study provides compelling evidence that individuals diagnosed with ADHD exhibit a similar incidence of refractive errors and ocular parameters compared to normal subjects. Nonetheless, the prevalence of refractive errors appears to be higher in unmedicated ADHD patients, suggesting the potential benefit of stimulant treatment. Additionally, stimulant use is associated with an increase in pupil diameter.

Refractive Errors Among Members of the Armed Forces of the Czech Republic.

Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of refractive errors among members of the Armed Forces of the Czech Republic, to recommend a safe way of correcting refractive errors with regard to the specific needs of military personnel (especially members of combat units and flying personnel), and to propose a system for solving these errors in order to increase combat effectivity. Methodology: Questionnaire to determine previous refractive surgery and spectacle correction wear. Measurement of refraction with a hand-held autorefractometer and evaluation of current visual acuity on ETDRS optotypes (Landolt rings). Results: 259 servicemen (518 eyes) were investigated. The return rate of the questionnaires was 100%. The incidence of myopia greater than -0.75D was 22% (113 eyes), myopia greater than -0.5D 32% (166 eyes). The mean value of myopia was -0.78 D (SD ±0.6). Hypermetropia values ranged from +0.25 to +5.0 D. The mean value of hypermetropia was 0.63 D (SD ±0.7). Astigmatism values ranged from -0.25 to -3.75. The mean value of astigmatism was -0.55 Dcyl (SD ±0.49). The average visual acuity was 84.1 letters ETDRS SD (±6.1), visual acuity worse than 80 letters was manifested by 23% of the members of the monitored group. 25 people (10%) had undergone laser refractive surgery. Visual acuity after laser refractive surgery was measured in 19 people (38 eyes). Mean uncorrected post-laser visual acuity was 83.87 (SD ±6.1) ETDRS letters. The mean follow-up period after laser refractive surgery was 6.78 (SD ±4.8) years. Conclusion: Despite the initial selection of military personnel and entry limitations, the prevalence of refractive errors is comparable to the general population. However, in contrast with the general population, refractive errors larger than -3.0 D were not represented in the group. Due to the finding of insufficient correction of refractive errors, increased emphasis should be placed on identifying and regularly observing military personnel with refractive errors

A review study on prevalence of refractive error among school going, pre-school going and adults in urban and suburban areas

A review study on prevalence of refractive error among school going, pre-school going and adults in urban and suburban areas

The Prevalence of Refractive Errors Among Middle-Class Kids in and Around Dehradun

Background: Children living in countries with moderate income levels, such as India, who are born with untreated refractive abnormalities continue to face significant challenges. Despite the availability of low-cost remedial techniques like eyeglasses, uncorrected refractive defects cause vision loss for many children in India. This persists even though glasses may correct the problem. Aim: The aim of the present study is to investigate whether children from middle-income families exhibit any refractive errors. Materials &amp; methods: The researchers conducted the present study after receiving approval from the institution’s ethics board. The research was carried out at Gautam Budha Chikitsa Mahavidyalaya, Jhajra, Dehradun, India. The study enrolled children from middle-income groups in and around the Dehradun city area. Results &amp; Conclusions: The study revealed that refractive errors are the leading cause of visual impairment among school-age children, particularly those from middle-income families. Given that most refractive defects can be corrected with glasses, there is a need for cost-effective strategies to safeguard children’s eyesight. Such disabilities might impede a child’s development and education. There is compelling evidence supporting this treatable cause of blindness.

Association Between Physical Indicators and Myopia in American Adolescents: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2008

PurposeMyopia is the most prevalent refractive error, imposing a substantial economic burden. Physical indicators constitute significant influencing factors for myopia. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) investigates the health and nutritional status of both children and adults in the United States. This study leveraged NHANES to explore the association between physical indicators and myopia among American adolescents. DesignRetrospective case-control study MethodsThe final study cohort consisted of 9008 adolescents. Demographic data, physical indicators, and vision data were extracted. The association between myopia and demographic factors, as well as physical indicators, employed weighted methods. Regression models were utilized to identify the associations between physical indicators and myopia. Cumulative odds logistic regression analysis was employed to investigate the association between physical indicators and the degree of myopia. Restricted cubic spline analysis was employed to examine the potential nonlinear relationship between physical indicators and the risk of myopia. ResultsThe occurrence of myopia was significantly correlated with age (p<0.001) and race (p=0.019). Adolescents in the fourth percentile for weight (odds ratio [OR] 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13-1.70) and body mass index (BMI) (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.05-1.51) exhibited an increased possibility of myopia. The highest risk of myopia was observed when the BMI approached 30. Height emerged as a risk factor for the degree of myopia (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.01-1.03). ConclusionsA certain association existed between physical indicators and myopia. Weight and BMI were related to the occurrence of myopia, while height and race were associated with the degree of myopia.

Assessment of stereoacuity (3D vision) using TNO random dot stereo acuity chart in medical undergraduate students: A cross-sectional study

The study aimed to estimate the level of stereoacuity in medical undergraduate students, factors associated with reduced stereoacuity, and time taken to interpret plates. Cross-sectional study was done at the Medical College of South Gujarat from April 2021 to June 2022, enrolling 400 consenting students. Detailed ocular history was taken; best corrected visual acuity was assessed for distance and near after cycloplegic refraction for cases with subnormal visual acuity and power of glasses documented. Level of Stereopsis was assessed using TNO random dot stereoacuity chart and time taken to read plates 1 and 5 was recorded. Data were entered and appropriate statistical tests were applied. Out of 400 students, 64.25% had a refractive error. Simple myopia was most prevalent refractive error (43.25%), followed by compound myopic astigmatism (19.5%). Seven students had anisometropic amblyopia and two had strabismic amblyopia. 19.75% cases had subnormal stereopsis. Among them, 10.25% cases had simple myopia, 7.25% had high compound myopic astigmatism, 1.75% had anisometropic amblyopia and 0.5% cases had strabismic amblyopia. Average time taken by emmetrope to read plate 1 and plate 5 was 13.93 ± 14.03 and 19.03 ± 20.66 respectively and for cases with refractive errors, time taken was 17.59 ± 13.95 and 27.83 ± 20.77 respectively. This was statistically significant (P &amp;#60;0.05). Most of the students had good stereoacuity as they were already wearing refractive correction. Commonest cause of subnormal stereopsis ware simple myopia, compound myopic astigmatism and amblyopia. Time taken to read the plates is more for refractive error as compared to emmetropes.

Retracted: Prevalence of Refractive Error in School Children in Suining City of Sichuan Province, China: A School-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Retracted: Prevalence of Refractive Error in School Children in Suining City of Sichuan Province, China: A School-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Prevalence of Refractive Errors and Associated Factors in the Population of the Eye Cohort Study in Southeast Iran

Objectives: The study aims to determine the age- and sex-adjusted prevalence of refractive errors and its related factors among the adult population of southeastern Iran. Methods: The current study included 9280 individuals aged 35 to 70 years using a multistage random sample method from October 2015 to January 2019 as a part of a Persian cohort study in Zahedan. Uncorrected and corrected vision, objective noncycloplegic, and subjective refraction were measured, with all participants undergoing ophthalmoscopy, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, fundoscopy, refraction, and retinoscopy. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0 statistic software and described as percentage, odds ratio, and 95% confidence interval. Comparisons between groups and relationships among risk factors and refractive errors were performed with chi-square, nominal, and multiple regression analysis. Results: The prevalence of low and moderate myopia, high myopia, low and moderate hyperopia, high hyperopia, low and moderate astigmatism, and high astigmatism was 24.2 (95% CI: 22.40 - 25.90), 1.5(95% CI: 0.00 - 3.53), 16.1(95% CI: 14.20 - 17.90), 1.3(95% CI: 0.00 - 3.30), 35.6 (95% CI: 33.90 - 37.30), and 3.8 (95% CI: 1.80 - 5.70) percent, respectively. The prevalence of refractive errors significantly varied across different age groups overall and by sex (P = 0.01). The proportion of refractive errors also significantly differed by education (P = &lt; 0.001). The prevalence of against the rule, with the rule, and oblique astigmatism was 32.8 % (95% CI: 31.10 - 34.20), 42.1% (40.50 - 43.60), and 24.9% (23.10 - 26.60), respectively. The risk of astigmatism was significantly lower in men than in women (OR = 0.75; 95 % CI: 0.60 - 0.90). Based on multiple regression, the risk of myopia (OR = 2.07; 95 % CI: 1.60 - 2.60) and hyperopia (OR = 25.38; 95 % CI: 18.70 - 34.3) was higher in the age group 65 to 75 years compared to the younger group. Conclusions: The present study provided valuable information on the prevalence of refractive errors in the adult population in south-eastern Iran. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive eye care services, particularly for older individuals and those with lower education levels. Further prospective research is warranted to explore the factors contributing to refractive errors and to develop effective strategies for its prevention and management.

Refractive Error among Children Visiting the Department of Paediatric Opthalmology of a Tertiary Eye Care Center.

Refractive error is the inability of eyes to focus clearly on images. Visual impairment due to refractive error has a major impact on children's education and daily activities. The hospital has no documentation of the ocular morbidity related to refractive errors in children. The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence of refractive error in children visiting the Department of Paediatric Ophthalmology of a tertiary care centre. A descriptive cross-sectional study was done in the Outpatient Department of Paediatric Ophthalmology in a tertiary care centre from 8 September 2022 to 7 March 2023 after obtaining ethical approval from the Institutional Review Committee. A convenience sampling method was used. The point estimate was calculated at 95% Confidence Interval. Among 3600 children, the prevalence of refractive error was seen in 668 children (18.56%) (15.61-21.51, 95% Confidence Interval). Refractive error was seen in 363 (54.34%) boys and 305 (45.66%) girls. Myopia was found in 340 (50.90%), astigmatism in 207 (30.99%), and hyperopia in 121 (18.11%). The prevalence of refractive error among children attending a tertiary care centre was found to be higher than studies done in similar settings. Regular screening of refractive error for visual impairment is recommended among school going children. astigmatism; hyperopia; myopia; refractive error; visual impairment.

Refractive error prevalence among the traditional Quranic boarding schools in Al-Gezira, Sudan

Background: Uncorrected refractive error is an avoidable aetiology of visual impairment, negatively affecting children’s quality of life. There is limited evidence related to the prevalence of refractive errors among the children or adolescent population within Sudan.Aim: To determine the prevalence and types of refractive error among children enrolled in traditional Quranic boarding schools in the Al-Gezira state, Sudan.Setting: This cross-sectional, quantitative study conducted within the student population of traditional Quranic boarding schools in Al-Gezira, Sudan.Methods: A total of 551 male children from eight schools underwent subjective and objective refraction, including direct ophthalmoscopy as well as binocular vision assessment.Results: Out of the total 551 school children, the refractive error prevalence was 6.2% (n = 34). The prevalence of myopia among the participants was 5.1% (n = 28), followed by hypermetropia 1.1% (n = 6). Astigmatism was diagnosed in 3.3% (n = 18) of the study population classified as myopic astigmatism of 2.4% (n = 13) and hyperopic astigmatism 0.9% (n = 5).Conclusion: This study found the prevalence of refractive errors among the children as 6.2%. It provides baseline data about refractive error among the children in this sample, which is useful as a reference point, however further studies need to be conducted in all the Quranic schools of Sudan.Contribution: This study offers a principal information about the ametropia among the children in this community and highlights the need for further refractive errors related epidemiological studies within the region.