Bismah Saleem, Naeem Ullah, Hamid Hussain, Ayaz Ayub, Muhammad Hamayun Khan.
Prevalence of Refractive Errors among the Children of Special Education Complex, Peshawar.
J Gandhara Med Dent Sci Jan ;5(2):28-32.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of our study was to determine the prevalence of refractive errors among children of special education complex. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine refractive error among the children of special education complex Hayatabad, Peshawar. A total of 272 children were examined from age 5-19 years. Refractive errors were determined by doing retinoscopy, subjective and objective refraction, ophthalmoscope and, hand held auto refractors. 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 children who were 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%) by Kay pictures and maximum number of children easily understand Snellen visual acuity chart that was 244(89.7%). CONCLUSION: This study concluded that refractive errors were common in special children.

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