Patterns of Refractive Errors among Medical Students at the University of Zambia School of Medicine

Background: Uncorrected refractive error is one of the leading causes of visual impairment and blindness world-over. The distribution and pattern of presentation is variable depending on various factors. Regardless of the type, refractive errors are easily correctable with spectacles if diagnosed early.

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the pattern of refractive errors among medical students at University of Zambia - School of Medicine.

Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the University Teaching Hospitals-Eye Hospital involving Master of Medicine, Master of Surgery (MBChB) students from third to seventh year of study at University of Zambia - School of Medicine, Ridgeway campus between October 2021 and March 2022. A total of 210 participants were recruited in the study. Subjects had non-cycloplegic autorefraction combined with a researcher administered questionnaire. Spherical equivalents (SE) ≥ - 0.50D were determined as myopia; SE of ≥ + 0.50D hyperopia and ≥ -0.50D cylinder as astigmatism. Statistical analysis was carried out using Stata version 13.0.

Results: One hundred and forty-one (67.1%) subjects had a form of refractive error; 56.0%, 31.2% and 12.8% of them were astigmats, myopes or hyperopes, respectively. The prevalence of ametropia was 65.0 % in females and 69.0 % in males. Minus spherical errors ranged from -0.25 to -5.00D and plus spherical errors ranged from +0.25 to +3.00D. The mean spherical equivalent for the group was -0.45D. Parental history of refractive error was significantly associated with diagnosis of refractive error (p=0.001) while age and gender were not (p = 0.428 and 0.530, respectively). The majority (68.6%) of participants were not aware of their refractive error.

Conclusion: The prevalence of refractive errors among medical students was high, with astigmatism being the most common type. The majority of those found with refractive error were not aware of the diagnosis.