Risk factors for refractive errors in primary school children (6-12 years old) in Nakhon Pathom Province

Penpimol Yingyong1

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Mettapracharak Eye Center, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand. penpimol1960@gmail.com

Insights

Family history of refractive error and increased near work are significant risk factors for myopia in primary school children. These findings highlight the importance of understanding genetic and environmental influences on childhood vision.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Pediatric Ophthalmology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Refractive error is a primary cause of childhood visual impairment.
  • Identifying risk factors is crucial for prevention and management strategies.
  • Childhood refractive errors necessitate targeted public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine risk factors for refractive errors in primary school children aged 6-12.
  • The study focused on children in Nakhon Pathom province.
  • Investigating the association between refractive error and environmental/genetic factors.

Main Methods:

  • A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted.
  • Data collected on refractive error, parental refractive status, and near work hours.
  • 377 primary school children participated in the assessment.

Main Results:

  • Myopia was the most prevalent refractive error.
  • Children with myopia had a higher likelihood of having myopic parents.
  • Increased hours of near-work activities were associated with myopia.
  • Parental myopia (OR=6.37) and near work (OR=1.019 per diopter-hour/week) were independent risk factors.

Conclusions:

  • Family history of refractive error is a significant predictor.
  • Extended hours of near-work activities are strongly associated with refractive error.
  • These factors independently contribute to the development of refractive errors in children.
Abstract

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