PREVALENCE AND LEVEL OF VISION IMPAIRMENT OF PUPILS ATTENDING SPECIAL AND INCLUSIVE SCHOOLS IN KAKAMEGA COUNTY, KENYA

Authors

  • Monicah W. Mwangi Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Kenya
  • Peter W. Bukhala Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Department of Health Promotion and Sports Sciences, Kenya

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejphs.v3i1.77

Keywords:

pupils, vision impairment, prevalence, special schools, inclusive schools, vision impairment classification

Abstract

Background: Vision Impairment (VI) in children is considered a severe public health problem since its high prevalence affects the well-being of the individuals, their families and the social welfare of entire nations. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and level of Vision Impairment of pupils attending special and inclusive schools. Methods: The study participants were 134 pupils randomly sampled from Special and Inclusive schools in Kakamega County. They went through Visual Acuity testing followed by Vision Impairment classification according to WHO guidelines. Socio-demographic and economic data was collected through guided questionnaires. Results: The overall prevalence of Vision Impairment among pupils attending special and inclusive schools in Kakamega County was 3.0% with the largest proportion having mild Vision Impairment. Conclusion: More studies expanding socio-demographic and economic factors of pupils attending special and inclusive schools should be conducted.

 

Author Biographies

  • Monicah W. Mwangi, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Kenya
    Monicah W. Mwangi (BSc. Optometry) is an Optometrist with main interest in Low Vision and Rehabilitative Optometry.
  • Peter W. Bukhala, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Department of Health Promotion and Sports Sciences, Kenya
    Peter W. Bukhala (PhD, MPH, BSc) is an associate professor at Masinde Muliro University vastly known for his knowledge and research prowess in the field of Sports Sciences.

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Published

2020-10-01

Issue

Vol. 3 No. 1 (2020)

Section

Articles

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How to Cite

PREVALENCE AND LEVEL OF VISION IMPAIRMENT OF PUPILS ATTENDING SPECIAL AND INCLUSIVE SCHOOLS IN KAKAMEGA COUNTY, KENYA. (2020). European Journal of Public Health Studies, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.46827/ejphs.v3i1.77