Utilization of Vision Corridor for Self-evaluation of Vision Among Secondary School Students in Igbo-Ora, Southwest Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Uncorrected refractive errors have been identified as a major cause of visual impairment with a high magnitude in developing countries, due to the paucity of eye care workers. To overcome this, different approaches like screening by non-eye care workers and self-assessment have been explored. This study aims to determine the utilization, reliability, and factors affecting the utilization of vision corridors among secondary school students. Material and Methods: An observational cross-sectional study conducted among students of Lasogba High School, Igbo-Ora, Southwest Nigeria. All the students received training on visual acuity assessment with the 6-meter Snellen’s chart. Thereafter, the chart with graphic instruction “Vision Corridor” was provided with a 4-week exposure period. All students who utilized the vision corridor recorded visual acuity in a register maintained by a community health extension worker. The utilization and factors that may have affected utilization were assessed after the exposure. Data were analyzed with the Statistical Package for Social Science version 15. Results: A total of 373 students completed the study; males accounted for 48.8% and females 51.2%. The mean age of the students was 15.2 (±2.2) years. A total of 151 (40.5%) students utilized the vision corridor and factors associated with utilization included being female, age ≤15 years, and being in a junior class, all of which were statistically significant. Conclusion: A moderate proportion of the students utilized the vision corridor. This approach to refractive error screening appears promising, as self-evaluation may reduce the need for skilled manpower in refractive error screening in secondary school students. Therefore, this may effectively utilize skilled eye care manpower for other eye care services in developing countries where there is a paucity of eye care workers.