Correlation of different types of refractive errors with cataract

Aims and objectives: To determine correlation between cataract and refractive errors. Study design: Descriptive cross-sectional. Study duration and settings: This study was conducted in outpatient department (OPD) in the department of ophthalmology at Hayatabad Medical Complex (HMC) Peshawar, from June 2021 to December 2021.This study was conducted on a total of 50 participants, age group 40 and above, comprising both male and female with cataract. Materials and Methods: Preliminary examination was done under strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), which include visual acuity assessment with Snellen visual acuity chart, refraction and anterior segment examination by direct ophthalmoscope. VA was recorded with and without correction for individuals who already used glasses. After recording VA with and without pinhole, objective refraction/dry retinoscopy was performed. Results: The results showed prevalence of myopia, hypermetropia and astigmatism as 12%, 28% and 60% respectively. Gender wise distribution of refractive errors including myopia, hypermetropia and astigmatism were 6%, 8% and 32% in male while myopia, hypermetropia and astigmatism in female were 6%, 20% and 32%. Conclusion: In cataract patients astigmatism was the most prevalent refractive error, followed by hypermetropia. Myopia was the least prevalent finding.