Using the C-Read as a Portable Device to Evaluate Reading Ability in Young Chinese Adults: An Observational Study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Vision Science
• Human Factors

Background:

• Assessing reading characteristics in healthy young adults is crucial for establishing normative data.
• Understanding factors influencing visual function and quality of life (QoL) is essential for eye health.
• The C-Read device and Visual Functioning Questionnaire (VFQ-25) are tools for evaluating reading ability and vision-related QoL.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide baseline reading performance values for normal-sighted young adults using the C-Read device.
• To investigate the relationship between VFQ-25 scores, reading ability, myopia, and screen time.
• To determine how these factors affect visual function and vision-related QoL.

Main Methods:

• 207 healthy young adults (18-35 years) were tested using C-Read for reading speed and acuity.
• Participants completed the VFQ-25 questionnaire to assess vision-related QoL.
• Data on myopia and daily screen usage hours were collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

• Mean reading acuity (RA) and critical print size (CPS) differed significantly between sexes.
• Maximum reading speed (MRS) varied with education level and myopia, though age confounding was unclear.
• Myopic power negatively affected RA; screen time positively affected MRS. Both RA and screen time duration negatively correlated with VFQ-25 scores.

Conclusions:

• The study provides normative C-Read data for young adults.
• Refractive status and screen time significantly influence reading performance.
• Improving reading acuity may enhance vision-related QoL, especially for older adults with visual impairments.