Prevalence of Vision Problems and Associated Risk Factors Among Secondary Government School Girls: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study in Western Maharashtra, India

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Visual health is crucial for academic and psychosocial development in school children. The increasing use of digital devices and reduced outdoor activities post-COVID-19 have contributed to rising vision problems, especially in school children. However, there is still limited data available from urban government schools in India. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 420 girls from 8th and 9th grades in a randomly selected government girls' school under the Urban Health Training Centre in Pune, Western Maharashtra. Vision screening was performed using Snellen charts, and socio-demographic data were collected through a validated, pretested questionnaire. Data collection included face-to-face interviews and vision problems checked by ophthalmology residents. Associations between vision problems and risk factors were assessed using chi-square tests and odds ratios; a p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The prevalence of abnormal visual acuity overall was 168 (40%), with 67 (16%) mild, 92 (22%) moderate, and 9 (2%) severe. Key risk factors included frequent eye rubbing, excessive blinking, and inadequate lighting at home, all significantly associated with poor visual acuity (p<0.05). Among students with vision acuity, 53 (31.5%) were reluctant to wear spectacles. Additionally, awareness among parents, affordability, and accessibility also emerged as notable barriers to the utilization of eye health services. CONCLUSION: A structured school-based eye health program is crucial for early detection, educating parents, and ensuring equal access to vision care, thereby reducing preventable visual acuity issues among school girls in India.