Prevalence of refractive errors among performing artists and association of Netrasadhaka in its prevention - An analytical cross-sectional study

Background An estimated 2.2 billion people worldwide experience some form of visual impairment, including both near and distant vision impairments. Refractive errors are the leading cause of visual impairment and blindness. Approximately 88.4 million cases of refractive errors could have been prevented or remain unaddressedIn Ayurveda, these conditions are categorized as vata-pradhana timira , a type of drishtigata roga. Treatment options of refractive errors like optical treatments don’t treat the underlying causes and surgical treatment can cause complications. For correcting mild refractive errors, preventing the progression and reducing the asthenopic symptoms eye exercises are advised by ophthalmologists. Netrasadhaka is a type of eye exercise practiced regularly by some groups of performing artists. Objectives To determine the prevalence of refractive errors among performing artists and to analyse the role of netrasadhaka in its prevention. Methods The analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 90 performing artists of both sexes between the age group 10-40 years of Kerala Kalamandalam, Thrissur through questionnaires and vision tests. Data were analysed statistically. Results The analysis revealed a prevalence of refractive errors at 24.4%. A negative correlation was observed between the practice of netrasadhaka and the occurrence of refractive errors, eye pain, watering of eyes, and other symptoms. Statistical analysis confirmed that the preventive effect of netrasadhaka on refractive errors was significant. Conclusion Netrasadhaka has a significant effect in preventing refractive errors. A case control study can be done to find the association of netrasadhaka with refractive errors for an accurate result.