Status of continuation of spectacle use among school children in selected districts of eastern Nepal: A retrospective study.

PURPOSE

Many school-going children experience physical, social, and academic challenges due to uncorrected refractive errors. This study aims to uncover the prevalence of spectacle compliance, identify factors that encourage regular use, and explore the barriers that lead to non-compliance.

METHODS

A retrospective exploratory study assessed compliance with free spectacles provided through the REACH project after three months of spectacles being dispensed. Unannounced visits were conducted across schools to check the compliances of the spectacles. Additional variables influencing compliance were assessed through digitized questionnaires administered. The project targeted students of grade 1-12, ranging from 6 to 18 years of age.

RESULTS

Among the 18,205 children diagnosed with significant refractive error, most of them were myopic, 16,634 were provided with free spectacles, while the remaining children were advised to continue the same spectacles. A total of 10,469 children were present in the school, 62.8 % were compliant with spectacle use. Compliance was notably higher among students with purchased spectacles (77.8 %) compared to those provided free spectacles (55.6 %). Bivariate analysis showed that younger children (ages 6-10 years), private school students, and those with severe refractive errors (high myopia and hypermetropia) had significantly higher compliance rates (p < 0.001). Key barriers included broken lenses/frames (27.7 %), wearing spectacles occasionally (27.1 %), discomfort (10.7 %), forgetfulness (7.5 %), loss (5 %), disliking spectacles (4.1 %), teasing (2.1 %), and parental disapproval (1.7 %).

CONCLUSION

These findings underscore the need for durable, comfortable, and appealing spectacles, as well as targeted awareness programs for parents and students to address stigma and improve compliance, maximizing the benefits of vision correction for children's educational and personal development.