Publication: Refractive Errors and Visual Anomalies in Schoolchildren in the Kavrepalanchowk District
Date
2010
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kathmandu University
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background
Schoolchildren form an important target group for a nation, as any ocular morbidity
in this age group has huge physical, psychological and socio-economical implications.
Childhood eye disorders can contribute to the burden of blindness in any society. This
study aims to highlight the prevalence of ocular morbidity in governmental schools in a
sub-urbanised area of Nepal, in relation to ethnic variation.
Methods
A descriptive study, and the study population used were schoolchildren who were
examined in their schools and afterwards referred to the hospital if required. Presenting
and best corrected visual acuity, refraction, binocularity assessment, anterior and
posterior segment evaluation was carried out. Data was analysed statistically using
SPSS software, version 14.
Results
We examined 1,802 school children. The mean age was 10.78±3.61 years. Ocular
abnormality was detected in 11.7%. Low vision and blindness was rare (0.11% and
0.05%). Ocular morbidities were more common in Newar communities (3.71%)
followed by Brahamans (3.38%). Lid abnormalities were the most common (3.55%),
and morbidities in each ethnicity were followed by refractive errors (3%), conjunctival
abnormalities (1.10%), strabismus (0.88%) and amblyopia (0.33%). Refractive errors
were most common among Newar communities (1.16%) at almost twice as many
Brahamans (0.61%) followed by Mongolians (0.49%). Convergence insufficiency was
detected in 2.49% (p<0.01).
Conclusions
Ocular morbidities are common in children in Kavhrepalanchowk District with lid
abnormalities being the most common issue, probably due to a lack of hygienic
practice. Ethnic variation of ocular morbidities is an important observation mostly for
refractive error and strabismus.
Key Words
blepharitis, blindness, ethnicity, oculo-visual, visual acuity
Description
Marasini S1, Sharma R2, Sthapit PR3, Sharma D4, Koju U5, Thapa G6, Nepal BP7
1-7Department of Ophthalmology Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital Dhulikhel, Nepal