• Journal of Korean Ophthalmic Optics Society
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• v.21 no.2
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• pp.147-152
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• 2016

Purpose: This study was designed to be used as the basic visual function data after analyzing and investigating the refractive errors variation between city and rural elementary school children. Methods: To compare with city and rural areas, 2501 elementary school children who lived in Mokpo, Yeongam, Muan, Hampyeong were participated. Objective refraction, Subjective refraction and binocular function examinations were measured. Results: Mean of refractive error of rural areas was -1.47 D in 2012 years, -1.52 D in 2013 years, and -1.40 D in 2014 years. However average of refractive error was -1.65 D in 2012 years, -1.76 D in 2013 years and -1.75 D in 2014 years who lives in city areas. Average myopia was showed higher who lives in rural areas elementary school children than city areas elementary school children. There were significant differences between rural areas and city areas elementary school children (p = 0.03), but there were no significant differences by averagre hyperopia (p = 0.32). Average myopia was showed the tendency of increase as the students get older by analysis compare with rural and city areas elementary school children. It also showed high prevalence of myopia who lives in city areas elementary school children compare with lives in rural areas elementary school children. Conclusions: It is the very important to performed regular visual acuity test and correction during the largest refractive change period and it is necessary to have experts in the visual acuity test.