European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Background: Children do not complain of defective vision, they usually adjust to the poor eyesight by various means. This requires early detection and treatment to prevent permanent disability. The school age is a formative period, physically and mentally, transforming the child into a promising adult. Poor vision in childhood affects performance in school and negatively influences the child’s future life.
Aim: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors related to ocular morbidity among school-going children (age 6–12 years).
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out from June 2021 to May 2022 in almost Ten primary schools in Jamshedpur, district from the first to fifth standard (6–12 years).
Results: Out of 500 participants based on the age group, the participants were highest in 10–12 years of age group, 22%. The remaining distribution was 20.8% in 7 years of age, 20.4% in 9 years of age, 19.8% in 8 years of age, and 17% in 6 years of age. The participants were highest in the female, which was 54.8% and 45.2% in males. The blurring of vision was the most common complaint reported by 40.2% of the study participants. The prevalence of total ocular morbidity among our study participants was 15.4%.
Conclusion: This study proves that the risk factors associated with refractive error can be avoided, and creating awareness among children, parents, and teachers play an essential role in preventing visual impairment.