ABSTRACT
This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of refractive errors especially myopia in school children and to study risk factors for myopia. During the period between February 2003 and February 2004, 1320 school children aged 8- 17 years attending pediatric and internal medicine clinic in Royal Medical Services for non ophthalmologic complaints were evaluated. A questionnaire was given to each child or his parents including information about parent's education and occupation, if there is a sibling wearing spectacles, ethnic group and the duration spent for near work. Visual acuity was assessed using Snellen's E-chart and any patient with visual acuity of less than 6/12 or with eye abnormality was referred to ophthalmology clinic for detailed eye examination. Eye examination included Snellen's visual acuity testing, anterior segment examination via slit lamp, posterior segment examination after mydriasis via indirect ophthalmoscope and cycloplegic refraction. The results revealed that 77 children [5.8%] had significant refractive errors. Myopia was the leading refractive error [4.8%]. Young age, female sex, educated parents, family history for sibling wearing spectacles and prolonged near work were all risk factors for developing myopia. The study concluded that the prevalence of refractive errors especially myopia is considered to be high in school children in Jordan; therefore an eye screening program is indicated in this region