Bismah Saleem, Naeem Ullah, Muhammad Hamayun, Ayaz Ayub, Hamid Hussain.
Prevalence of Refractive Errors and Strabismus among the Children\\\'s of Special Education Complex, Peshawar.
J Saidu Med Col Jan ;9(2):169-73.

Background: Refractive errors are more common in school going children of developing countries but special children are more commonly affected. Vision screening is important in all schools but especially special schools which will lead to timely diagnosis and treatment of ocular disorders. Objective: The objective of our study was to determine the prevalence of refractive errors and strabismus among students of special education complex. Martial and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine refractive error among the children of special education complex Hayatabad, Peshawar. Refractive errors were determined by doing retinoscopy, subjective and objective refraction, opthalmoscopy, hand held auto refractor were used. Snellen's charts, lea symbol chart and kay pictures were used for assessing the visual acuity in children who could cooperate. Results: Among 272 children, 225 children were males (82.7%). 34(12.5%) were mentally retard, 182(66.9%) were hearing impaired and 56(20.6%) were physically handicapped. Children suffering from refractive errors were 47(17.3%). 11(4.0%) reported that they were using glasses. Squint was present in 5(1.8%). On examination status of right eye 5(1.8%) were with visual acuity 6/60 or less. For students who are unable to comprehend with snellen visual acuity chart, they were be assessed by using other charts like Lea symbol chart or Kay pictures. 19(7.0%) were assessed by Lea symbol chart, 9(3.3%) were assessed by Kay pictures and maximum number of children's easily understand snellen visual acuity chart that was 244(89.7%). Conclusion: Refractive errors were common in Children. Timely treatment of these children will help in proper development of child.

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