Risk Factors Associated with Refractive Errors Among Children at Ibn Al-Haitham Teaching Eye Hospital in Baghdad, Iraq
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51173/ijmhs.v3i1.69Keywords:
Refractive errors, myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, risk factors, childrenAbstract
Background: Refractive errors are a significant public health concern, particularly among children, as they can lead to visual impairment and adversely affect educational and social development.
Objective of study: This study investigated the risk factors associated with different types of refractive errors among children in Baghdad, Iraq.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Ibn Al-Haitham Teaching Hospital, where children aged 6–15 years underwent comprehensive eye examinations, including distance and near visual acuity assessments using the Log MAR chart, along with objective and subjective refraction. Socio-demographic characteristics and potential risk factors of refractive error were collected using a structured interview with parents or guardians. Multinomial and binary logistic regression were used to determine the risk factors associated with refractive errors.
Results: A total of 384 children participated in the study. Multivariable analysis indicated that watching television for 2 hours or more daily was associated with increased odds of myopia, while maintaining a TV viewing distance of more than three meters significantly reduced the likelihood of myopia (Adj. OR: 0.32; 95% CI: 0.18–0.56; p<0.001). Older age was associated with a lower risk of myopia (Adj. OR: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.83–0.96; p=0.002). For hyperopia, watching television at a distance of more than 3 meters (Adj. OR: 5.18; 95% CI: 2.55–10.52; p<0.001) or at 2 meters (Adj. OR: 2.77; 95% CI: 1.43–5.37; p=0.003) was associated with increased odds.
Conclusion: This study identifies several modifiable risk factors associated with refractive errors in children in Baghdad, Iraq, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to promote healthy lifestyle habits and access to comprehensive vision screening and corrective devices.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Baydaa Jaber Sharman, Zainora Mohammed, Norliza Mohamad Fadzil , Mohd Harimi Abd Rahman
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