Refractive Error in the Intellectually Disabled Population of Lucknow: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Purpose: To identify the prevalence and pattern of refractive errors among intellectually disabled individuals in Lucknow, India, and to examine their association and correlation with the severity of intellectual disability. Methods: This was a community-based cross-sectional study. A total of 187 intellectually disabled children and adults identified through community screening activities were examined. Visual acuity assessment was performed using Snellen picture charts and Cardiff Cards, depending on cognitive ability. Auto-refraction, objective, and subjective refraction were conducted. Intellectual disability (ID) was categorized as mild, moderate, or severe based on IQ criteria. Statistical analysis included chi-square testing and Pearson correlation. Results: Females constituted the majority of the study population. Refractive errors were observed in 58.8% of the participants, with hyperopia (34.2%) being more common than myopia (24.6%). Other ocular conditions included strabismus, nystagmus, and ptosis. The association between severity of intellectual disability and the presence of refractive error was not statistically significant (χ² = 2.14, p = 0.34). Similarly, correlation between IQ level and refractive error type was weak and non-significant (r = –0.08, p > 0.05). Conclusion: Refractive errors are highly prevalent among intellectually disabled individuals in Lucknow; however, they do not significantly correlate with the severity of intellectual disability. Routine screening and early correction are essential to improve overall functioning and quality of life. Key words: Refractive errors; Intellectual disability; Prevalence; Hyperopia; Myopia; Visual impairment; Community-based study; Snellen chart; Cardiff cards; IQ correlation; Severity of disability. .