Prevalence of refractive errors among school going adolescents in district Samba of Jammu and Kashmir, India

Abstract

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 125 school-going adolescents (12-16 years) in selected schools of Block Ramgarh, District Samba, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), to determine the prevalence of refractive errors. The study revealed a high prevalence of refractive errors (24.8%), with myopia being the most common (15.2%), followed by hyperopia (7.2%). Notably, 62.5% of participants with refractive errors were unaware of their condition, highlighting a significant need for early detection and treatment to prevent further progression and promote visual health among children and adolescents.