Comparative Study of Visual Acuity, Colour Vision and Refractive Status in School Going Children of 6-12 Years of Age in Urban And Rural Areas of Pune District

Introduction: Visual acuity (VA) and colour vision are crucial aspects of vision, impacting individuals’ ability to perceive details and discern colours accurately. Understanding the prevalence of impairments in these areas amongst urban and rural school-going children is vital for addressing potential academic and social development implications. This study aims to assess the prevalence of VA, colour vision and refractive index impairments amongst urban and rural school children in Pune District, Maharashtra. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in three urban and four rural areas of Pune District, selecting a total of 900 school children, with 450 from each area. VA was assessed using Snellen’s chart, and colour vision was evaluated using the Ishihara colour vision test. Data analysis utilised logMAR values. Results: Demographic analysis revealed a majority of 16.6% of school children aged 9 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.16. Myopia was observed in 215 participants, with a statistically significant difference between urban (94.8%) and rural (70.7%) areas. Hypermetropia was present in 50 participants, with a significantly higher prevalence in rural areas (29.3%) compared to urban areas (5.2%). Conclusion: Early detection of visual impairments is crucial for timely intervention to prevent deterioration of visual function. Schools and parents should prioritise regular eye checkups to ensure optimal vision health in children. The high prevalence of visual impairments and colour vision deficiencies amongst school-age children underscores the importance of addressing these issues to mitigate potential impacts on academic success and self-esteem.