The prevalence of refractive errors, visual impairment and spectacle uptake among paediatric patients in Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

Uncorrected refractive errors can lead to severe visual impairment and blindness. There is a worldwide prevalence of visual impairment from uncorrected refractive errors in children of 0.97%. In children, loss of education and vocational chances can ensue, negatively impacting their quality of life despite the remedy with spectacle correction, as barriers do exist. Aim: This research aimed to determine the prevalence of refractive errors and visual impairment, spectacle uptake and reasons for spectacle refusal among paediatric patients attending a public-private partnership hospital in Abuja, Nigeria.