A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY OF THE PREVALENCE OF REFRACTIVE ERRORS AMONG FIRST YEAR MEDICAL STUDENTS

Abstract

Introduction: Refractive error (RE) is characterized by the inability of the non accommodating eye's optical system to converge parallel light rays onto the retinal surface. The prevalence of refractive errors is increasing in medical students due to increase in near work hours, both due to studies and over exposure to gadgets. Identifying the group specific prevalence will help in creating awareness about refractive errors and initiation of corrective measures as uncorrected refractive errors result in impaired vision and blindness. Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 230 first year medical students who were administered a questionnaire, following which the students underwent thorough ophthalmic examination to know the type and amount of refractive error. The results were tabulated and the prevalence of refractive error was noted among the students.