Visual Impairment Among Undergraduates: A Situational Analysis of Eye Health in Bowen University Iwo, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Eye health is an essential aspect of overall health, and visual impairment (VI) can significantly impact academic performance and quality of life. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of VI among undergraduates and the pattern of VI. We set out to give the situational analysis of the student’s eye health. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1407 undergraduate students at the institution. Data obtained includes sociodemographic characteristics, vital signs, and visual acuity using a structured questionnaire. Visual acuity was classified using the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems version 11 (ICD-11) of VI. Results: VI was found in either the right or left eyes of 797 (56.65%) participants. Of the 645 respondents with right-eye VI, 531 (82.3%) had mild VI while 104 (16.1%) had moderate VI. VI was found in the left eye of 657 (46.7%) respondents. The study also found that females had a significantly higher prevalence of VI than males (p < 0.05). Only 231 (28.98%) of the respondents had corrective lenses presently. Conclusions: The prevalence of VI among undergraduates is high, and the proportion currently using corrective spectacles among them is quite low. Eye health should be prioritized among undergraduates.