Cycloplegic Refractive Error Survey of Early School Age in KHONKAEN

Abstract

          Objective : To study the prevalence of visual impairment using cycloplegic refraction method and the prevalence of amblyopia from refractive error in first grade students in Khon Kaen.

          Method : We conducted a retrospective study that included  first grade students in the Dek Thai Sai Ta Dee Project at Khon Kaen Hospital inacademic year 2017. Data  including age, visual acuity before and after refractive error correction, and refractive error value were collected. The data were then analyzed to determine the prevalence of refractive error and amblyopia. Visual impairment was classified into 4 groups; myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and combined type (myopia or hyperopia with astigmatism).        

          Result : A total of 12,293 students (aged 6-8 years) were included in the study.  Fifty-six children (0.46%) had visual impairment. Among those with visual impairment, 11 students (19.64%) had myopia, 3 students (5.36%) had hyperopia, 13 students (23.21%) had astigmatism, and 29 cases (51.79%) had combined type (myopia or hyperopia with astigmatism). Associated visual conditions were identified as following; 3 students (5.36%) had amblyopia and 3 students (5.36%) had strabismus.
          Conclusion : Our data can be used to monitor visually impaired children and will lead to development of collaboration between public and private sectors. Visual screening in children is critical for early detection, referral and prompt treatment of abnormal ophthalmologic conductions.