Prevalence, vector evolution, and visual impact of astigmatism: a large-scale study of 79,066 children in Beijing, China

Category	Detail
Condition	Astigmatism
Key Mechanisms	Characterized by the inability to focus light uniformly on the retina, leading to blurred or distorted vision.
Target Population	School-aged children (6 to 20 years) in Beijing, China.
Care Setting	School-based screening program.

Overall prevalence of astigmatism was 43.6%, predominantly mild and with-the-rule (WTR) subtype (82.9%).
Prevalence and severity increased with advancing educational stages.
Males showed higher susceptibility to WTR orientation, while females were more prone to ATR and oblique.
Magnitude of astigmatism significantly impaired uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) in non-myopic and low-myopic eyes.
Functional impact of axis orientation on UCVA was clinically insignificant.

Tailor monitoring and correction strategies to specific genders and refractive profiles.

Regular assessment of astigmatism prevalence and severity in school-aged children.

Significant uncorrected astigmatism is associated with accelerated myopic progression and elevated risk of amblyopia.

Children aged 6 to 20 years in Beijing, China.

Targeted interventions may be necessary based on astigmatism subtype and educational progression.

Conduct comprehensive screening in school settings to identify astigmatism.
Implement educational programs to raise awareness about the importance of vision care.
Monitor the evolution of astigmatism and its impact on visual acuity over time.