The prevalence of different refractive errors in the Delta region of Egypt

Abstract

Introduction Epidemiologic research on the types and the distribution of refractive errors (REs) enable efficient planning to improve access to care. Aim The aim was to fill the informational gap concerning the prevalence of REs in different age groups in the Delta region of Egypt and to introduce recommendations and key points for researchers. Patients and methods This is a cross-sectional descriptive study for the prevalence of REs in the Delta region of Egypt among different age groups. The population-based study included 800 eyes of 400 patients from different age groups, 400 eyes in the child age group and 400 eyes in adult age group. Results and discussion The prevalence of myopia was higher than the prevalence of hyperopia. The prevalence of astigmatism was higher than myopia, but also higher than other studies. The prevalence of myopia was higher in the adult age group than in the child age group, which was consistent with that of other East Asian countries. The prevalence of hyperopia was higher in the child age group than in the adult age group. The prevalence of astigmatism was very high and slightly similar in both groups. Conclusion Correcting REs can reduce ophthalmic problems. Improving family awareness and promoting screening programs can be effective in identifying these errors and preventing visual impairment.