Prevalence of Common Ocular Disorders Among Secondary School Students in Yola North, Adamawa State, Nigeria

M.D. Hananiya; T. Ndife; O.B. Olaniyi; T. Mustapha; D. Ribadu; B.N. Noel; J. Mamza; D.S. Hananiya

Authors

M.D. Hananiya Department of Ophthalmology, Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital, Yola, Nigeria
T. Ndife Department of Ophthalmology, University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, Uyo, Nigeria
O.B. Olaniyi National Eye Center, Kaduna, Nigeria
T. Mustapha Department of Ophthalmology, Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital, Yola, Nigeria
D. Ribadu Department of Ophthalmology, Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital, Yola, Nigeria
B.N. Noel Department of Public Health, Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital, Yola, Nigeria
J. Mamza Department of Public Health, Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital, Yola, Nigeria
D.S. Hananiya Disease Prevention and Control Cluster, World Health Organization, North Central Zonal Office, Minna, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Early eye screening is recommended for detecting ocular disorders in children. Schools offer a strategic platform for such public health interventions. Up to about 26% of school-aged children experience visual impairment, emphasizing the need for the timely identification and treatment of eye disorders among this population.

Aim: This study assessed the prevalence and pattern of common ocular disorders among secondary school students in Yola North Local Government Area, Adamawa State, Nigeria.

Methods: A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January to February 2024, utilizing a multistage sampling technique. Students from both public and private schools were recruited. Eye examinations included visual acuity assessment, external ocular examination using a pen torch, and fundal examination using a direct ophthalmoscope. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 26.

Results: Out of 460 students screened 94% were under 18 years (mean age of 14.2 ± 2.3 years) and 50.4% were female. The most prevalent ocular conditions were allergic conjunctivitis 176(38.3%), bacterial conjunctivitis 59(12.8%), and refractive error 18(3.9%). Fundus abnormalities included suspicious discs 23(5%), glaucomatous changes- 3(0.7%). Referral uptake was 57.4%.

Conclusion: A significant burden of preventable ocular disorders exists among secondary school students in Yola North, with allergic conjunctivitis being the most prevalent condition and referral uptake for specialist care is suboptimal.

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