Abstract
Aim: To investigate the prevalence of non-strabismic binocular vision dysfunctions among university students in an optometry clinic in Johannesburg.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 94 of the 106 students at the University of Johannesburg who qualified, aged of 17-25 years. A comprehensive eye examination and a detailed evaluation for binocular and accommodative dysfunctions was carried out. The expanded vision screening included a symptom questionnaire, continuing through pre-screening which included autorefraction, slit lamp, and fundoscopy. The measurement of visual acuity (Snellen Acuity), refractive error (subjective refraction), accommodation (accuracy, facility and amplitude), evaluation of the vergence system (accuracy, facility and amplitude) and ocular motilities (direct observation) was also done. Comprehensive binocular vision assessments were performed, including tests for vergence, accommodation, and ocular alignment. The collected data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, and statistics were determined, including frequencies, statistical significance, and correlations.
Results: Of the 94 participants, 35 (37.23%) were male and 59 (62.77%) were female. Participants had a mean age of 20.67 years. Forty-two (44.7%) of the 94 participants had at least one type of non-strabismic binocular vision dysfunctions (NSBVDs). The most prevalent dysfunction was fusional vergence dysfunction (FVDs) (24.50%), followed by convergence insufficiency (CI) (22.30%) and accommodative insufficiency (AI) (21.30%). Less frequent findings included accommodative excess (AE) (4.30%) and accommodative infacility (AInf (8.50%). Prevalent symptoms included eyestrain, headaches, and watering of the eyes.
Conclusion: Non-strabismic binocular vision dysfunctions (NSBVDs) including accommodative and vergence dysfunctions occur more frequently among university students. Therefore, comprehensive eye examinations for university students should include assessments of accommodative and management through appropriate interventions such as lenses, prisms, and vision therapy to enhance optimal visual performance.