Epidemiology of Keratoconus and Associated Risk Factors in High School Students in Couva, Trinidad.
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Date
2023
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Faculty of Medical Sciences, The UWI, St. Augustine Campus, Trinidad and Tobago.
Abstract
Aim: To determine the prevalence of keratoconus and associated risk factors of keratoconus among high school students in Couva.
Method: This study was a descriptive, cross-sectional study on the prevalence of keratoconus among high school students in Couva. Schools were selected based on their proximity to the University of the West Indies Optometry Clinic in Cova. Systematic random sampling technique was used to select students to participate in the study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data and assess risk factors of keratoconus. Clinical assessment including visual acuity, scissors reflex, and topography was performed for those at risk of keratoconus. The data was exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) where descriptive analysis tests were done, and logistic regression analysis was used to determine associated risk factors. p<0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: The prevalence of keratoconus was 0.46% (2/432) and 47.7% of the participants were at risk of having keratoconus. Family history was found to be significantly associated with keratoconus (OR = 142.333, 95% CI: 7.119–2845.711; p=0.00). The awareness of keratoconus was low among the study population (9.0%).
Conclusion: This prevalence of keratoconus and those at risk of having keratoconus among high school students in Couva was significantly high when compared with global findings. Family history was the most significant factor of keratoconus and there was a poor awareness of
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keratoconus. Awareness about keratoconus among high school children in Trinidad is highly advised for early detection of keratoconus and those at risk.