Preferred spectacles among nigerian school children: Report from a refractive error in school children (RESC) study

Abstract

Background: Refractive error (RE) is the most common cause of visual impairment globally and affects about 12.8 million children (5–15 years). Uncorrected RE in children could lead to irreversible vision loss in the paediatric age group. Spectacles are commonly used to correct RE although preferred spectacle design pattern among children may influence spectacle use. Aims: This study aims to assess school children’s preferred spectacle designs and the factors associated with these preferences in south east Nigeria. Subjects, Materials and Methods: A representative cross‑sectional study among school children aged 5–15 years in South‑East Nigeria. Participants were asked to independently select preferred spectacles displayed based on: frame colour, material, shape of ear‑piece, lens size, and shape. Statistical analysis of data to yield frequencies and test of association was done using Chi‑square. Binary logistic regression tested the strength of association. Adjusted odds ratios were calculated at 95% confidence interval and P < 0.05 were considered significant. Results: The study comprised 5723 school children (males 46.9% and females 53.1%), aged 10.49 ± 2.74 years. Their commonly preferred spectacles were red coloured (35.4%), had straight earpiece (80.6%), of plastic materials (62.8%), rectangular lens shape (55.3%), and medium lens sized (58.6%). Age was the most associated factor with spectacle choice preference among the school children (P < 0.05 in four out of the five possible preferences evaluated).  Spectacle preferences exist among the study population. Some demographic factors are associated with these preferences which should be considered in any childhood RE services.