The prevalence of refractive errors at schoolchildren in rural and urban Romania
April 7, 2010
| Abstract Title: | The prevalence of refractive errors at schoolchildren in rural and urban Romania |
| Authors: | Bugari Dan, Turcin Luminita, Jompan Afilon, Turcin Radmila |
| Affiliation: | “Vasile Goldis” Western University Arad, Romania |
| Abstract text: | Introduction. Undiscovered and untreated refractive errors are an important cause of low visual acuity (LVA), amblyopia and even blindness. We didn’t find any recent data in the literature regarding the prevalence of myopia, hypermetropia and astigmatism at schoolchildren in rural and urban Romania. We must underline the importance of the screening of refractive errors because of the negative consequences that result from early misdiagnose those health problems. Materials and Methods At this study took part 657 schoolchildren (8-16 years old) from witch 394 in rural environment (Pilu, Varsand, Cil, Beliu, Hasmas villages) and 263 in urban environment (from 2 high schools within Arad city). Refraction was measured with Potec 5000 autorefractokeratometer under cycloplegia. Myopia was defined as refractive errors of at least -0.5 SD, hyperopia +1.5 SD and astigmatism 1.0 CD. The results were analyzed using chi2 test. P 0.005 was considered statistically relevant. Results. In Rural environment only 2% of the subjects were previously examined by a specialist in comparison with urban schoolchildren (17.8%). Myopia was found in higher numbers in urban pupils (15.6%) that in rural (8.9%). |
| Keywords: | refractive errors, low visual acuity, school children, rural and urban |
| Presentation type: | Poster |
| Correspondence: | no. 52 R. Ciorogariu St., Arad, Romania |
| Email: | danbugari@yahoo.com |
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