Prevalence of Myopia and Associated Risk Factors Among Patients at a Tertiary Hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia

Abstract

Introduction: Myopia, often known as shortsightedness, is a refractive error caused by the cornea's steep curvature or prolonged axial length, resulting in light rays converging in front of the retina instead of on it. It is the most common type of vision problem, affecting many school-age children and teenagers, with its seriousness generally linked to higher levels of schooling. The study identifies several risk factors for myopia, including educational level, family history, outdoor activity, smartphone usage, and near-work activity

Method: A cross-sectional study including 400 patients was conducted at the Mogadishu Somali Turkey Training and Research Hospital in Somalia between July 2023 and November 2023. A structured questionnaire was developed from several research sources to assess the prevalence and risk factors of myopia through interviews.

Result: Out of the total patient population (5000), it is observed that 8% (400 patients) have been diagnosed with myopia. On the other hand, a majority of 92% (4600 patients) do not exhibit myopia. According to the gender, male patients had a 0.1 times lower likelihood of being myopic compared to female patients (adjusted odds ratio = 0.142, 95% confidence interval: 0.730-1.206), and this difference was statistically significant (p-value < 0.005). Patients with educational levels of preschool, schooling, and university level 1.7, 1.8, and 1.2 were more likely to be myopic than those who were not educated (AOR = 1.729, 95% CI: 0.745-6.122) and (AOR = 1.809, 95% CI: 0.157-1.821) and (AOR = 1.221, 95% CI: 0.912-2.291), and patients with educational levels of preschool and schooling were statistically significant to be myopic (P-values 0.000). Individuals under the age of 15 were 1.2 times more prone to myopia compared to those aged 35 and older (AOR = 1.283, 95% CI: 0.382-2.894), and they were statistically significant to be myopic (P-value 0.007).

Conclusion: The study provides valuable insights on myopia and its related risk factors. Continued study and cooperation are essential to deepen our comprehension, strengthen preventive strategies, and ultimately lessen the worldwide influence of myopia on ocular health. It is crucial to identify the risk factors associated with myopia and accurately assess the prevalence of this condition.