MAGNITUDE OF REFRACTIVE ERRORS AND ITS ASSOCIATED FACTORS AMONG PATIENTS VISITING ARBA MINCH AND SAWLA GENERAL HOSPITALS OPHTHALMOLOGY CLINIC, SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Introduction: Refractive error is a vision impairing condition due to light rays not able to focus on the retina, resulting in the visual effect of blurred image. Since it is the major cause of visual impairment globally and in Africa which affects all age groups of individuals that requires attention. However, there is shortage of research study conducted in the magnitude and associated factors of refractive errors among all age groups in Southern Ethiopia. Therefore, this study assesses the magnitude of refractive errors and its associated factors among patients attending ophthalmic clinics of SGH and AMGH, Southern Ethiopia. Methods: Institutional based cross sectional study was conducted. A pretested questionnaire was done on 5% of total sample size to assess the instrument. Systematic random sampling technique was used and data were collected using interview structured questionnaire and physical examination. The data were entered into Epi data version 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 25 for further analysis and management. Descriptive statistics were computed by using tables and graphs, independent variables with a P-value ≤ of 0.25 in the binary logistic regression analysis were entered into multivariable logistic regression. AOR (adjusted odds ratio) with a corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated. Statistical significance was declared at P-value < 0.05. Result: Among 356 participants, 96 (27.5%), with 95 % CI (22.8, 32.1) had refractive error, of which myopia is the most common type (15.8%). Regular use of electronic devices (4.53 (2.46, 8.33)), p < 0.001), working distance at near (<33cm), 3.32(1.32, 8.33), p=0.01), less or lack of outdoor activities, 3.87 (1.72, 8.68), p=0.001), history of diabetes mellitus 4.20 (2.20, 8.02), p < .001) and family history of refractive errors 3.94 (1.85, 8.42), p < 0.001 ) were variables significantly associated with refractive errors. Conclusion and Recommendations: The magnitude of refractive error was 27.5%, which is relatively higher in the study area. Early diagnosis and treatment of refractive errors with affordable optical corrections, better reading distance (> 33 cm), encouraging better outdoor activities and proper use of visual display unit is recommended.