Abstract
Background and Objective: Refractive errors are among the most common visual problems in human populations and, if left undiagnosed or untreated, can adversely affect academic performance, occupational functioning, and quality of life. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and extent of refractive errors in the rural population aged 6–30 years in Mazandaran Province, Iran.
Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, the target population consisted of residents of rural areas in Mazandaran Province. Comprehensive eye examinations and optometric assessments were conducted for each participant, with a primary focus on measuring refractive errors. Refractive errors were measured using a Topcon autorefractometer (model R7000 RM). Data analysis was performed using one-sample t-tests, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Scheffé post hoc tests with SPSS software.
Results: The mean refractive error increased with age, with the lowest mean observed in the 5–10 years age group (0.01 ± 0.0) and the highest in the 21–25 years group (0.41 ± 0.08). The 26–30 years group showed a slightly lower mean (0.32 ± 0.01) but remained higher than the younger age groups. ANOVA indicated a significant difference in mean refractive errors among the different age groups (F = 15.77, P < 0.0001). Scheffé post hoc analysis revealed that the 5–10 years group differed significantly from all other groups, and the 11–15 years group showed significant differences with the 21–25 and 26–30 years groups, whereas no significant differences were observed among the other age groups.
Conclusion: Overall, this study provides a clear picture of the status of refractive errors in the target population and can serve as a basis for health-oriented planning aimed at improving visual health and reducing the burden of ocular disorders in these rural areas.