Prevalence of visual impairment and associated risk factors: a cross-sectional community-based study among children and adolescents in Ghana - Scorecard - MDSpire

Prevalence of visual impairment and associated risk factors: a cross-sectional community-based study among children and adolescents in Ghana

  • By

  • Josephine Ampomah Boateng

  • Werner Eisenbarth

  • Sylvester Kyeremeh

  • Albert Kwadjo Amoah Andoh

  • Isaiah Osei Duah Junior

  • Debora Abena Baidoo

  • Sylvia Agyekum

  • Daniel Boateng

  • Emmanuel Antwi

  • Kwadwo Owusu Akuffo

  • May 20, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Scorecard: Frequency of Visual Impairment and Contributing Factors: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study of Children and Adolescents in Ghana

At a Glance

CategoryDetail
ConditionVisual Impairment in Children and Adolescents
Key MechanismsReduced visual function affecting developmental expectations and everyday functioning, defined as visual acuity worse than 0.3 logMAR.
Target PopulationChildren and adolescents aged 0-20 years in the Ashanti Region of Ghana.
Care SettingCommunity-based assessment.

Key Highlights

  • Prevalence of distance visual impairment was 6.1% (p < 0.001); near visual impairment was 10.9% (p < 0.001).
  • Age and ethnicity significantly associated with lower odds of distance visual impairment (AOR = 0.68, AOR = 0.10).
  • Study emphasizes the need for early detection and improved access to pediatric eye care services.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

  • Comprehensive ocular examinations including visual acuity assessment.

Management

  • Strengthen early detection and improve access to pediatric eye care services.

Monitoring & Follow-up

  • Longitudinal studies using cohort designs to clarify risk patterns and inform interventions.

Risks

  • Uncorrected refractive errors and cataract as leading causes of childhood visual impairment.

Patient & Prescribing Data

Children and adolescents aged 0-20 years.

Timely intervention, such as corrective lenses or surgical options, can prevent or treat conditions leading to visual impairment.

Clinical Best Practices

  • Implement community-based screening programs for early detection of visual impairment.
  • Enhance training for healthcare personnel in pediatric eye care, supported by evidence from recent studies.

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