Abstract:
Abstract
Introduction: Strabismus is a misalignment of the eyes, such that the visual axes
of each eye are not simultaneously directed at the object of regard. It may be the
result of multiple factors. It is usually attributable to refractive, sensory, organic,
anatomic, motor or innervational causes. It occurs more frequently in children with
neurodevelopmental conditions and born prematurely or of low birth weight. Though
strabismus is a common presenting ocular problem, there are limited data in the
study area about the prevalence and associated factors.
Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated
factors of strabismus among kindergarten school children in Gondar city.
Methods: School based cross-sectional study design was used from April 24 - May
8, 2017 with 848 sample size. Multistage systematic random sampling was used to
reach at the required sample size. The data was collected by pretested and
structured questionnaire and through eye examination with different ophthalmic
instruments. Data was entered into epidemiological information version 3.5.1 and
analyzed using statistical package for social sciences version 20. Descriptive
statistics was carried out. Binary logistic regression was fitted and variables which
had P value of < 0.05 in multivariable analysis were considered as statistically
significant.
Result: A total of 784 study subjects were included in this study, giving a response
rate of 92.5%. The median age was 6 years
Conclusion and recommendation: The prevalence of strabismus was 3.1%.
Prematurity, parents with strabismus and children with refractive error were
independently significantly associated variables with strabismus. As vision loss and
amblyopia are the major complications of strabismus, early screening is important.
Key words: Cross-sectional, kindergarten school, Northwest Ethiopia, Strabismus
