Dr. DEEP CHAND SAINI

Dr.NABAB ALI KHAN, Dr.Anju Kochar

Abstract

Purpose: To study the prevalence and type of refractive errors among school children.

Study design: prospective, cross sectional, non-interventional case series

Method: Preliminary screening was done on Snellen’s chart followed by detailed fundus examination and refraction on autorefractometer. Subjective test was done and appropriate correction given.

Results: A total of 1078 children were examined. The subjects consisted of 702 male and 376 females. The children were aged 5-17 years (mean= 9.8+_3.2 years,95% confidence interval [CL] 9.6-10.0). 265 children representing 24.6% had refractive errors. Astigmatism was the most common refractive error followed by myopia and hyperopia.

Conclusion: uncorrected refractive error remains the most common unaddressed problem in school going children . Cost effective strategies for vision screening of school children should be incorporated into school health programmes .