Factors associated with the prevalence of refractive errors among medical students in the United Arab Emirates

Background: Refractive errors (REs) remain a leading cause of visual impairment worldwide. Medical students frequently report a high burden of REs, possibly attributable to genetic influences and lifestyle factors like extended near-work activities and limited outdoor exposure. Limited data exist on the prevalence and determinants of REs among medical students in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This study aimed to determine the prevalence of REs in this population and to identify the key potential risk factors associated with them. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among medical students at the United Arab Emirates University. A validated 14-item questionnaire assessed the presence and type of REs, demographic and physical characteristics, educational level, family history, electronic device usage, and sunlight exposure. The survey was disseminated electronically between November 2023 and February 2024. Proper statistical analysis was employed to determine key predictors of REs. Results: Among 328 participants, the overall prevalence of refractive errors was 61.3%, with myopia (with or without astigmatism) accounting for 84.1% of these cases. Female students exhibited more than three-fold higher risk of having REs than males (p = 0.01), and students with a first-degree relative affected had a 7.6-fold greater likelihood of having REs (p < 0.001). Most students with REs (77.1%) used spectacles for correction, and only 11 had laser refractive surgery. Finally, body weight significantly modulated RE type, favoring hyperopia among heavier participants (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study reveals a high prevalence of REs among medical students in UAE, with myopia being the predominant type. The key risk factors associated with this high prevalence were female sex and positive family history. These findings underscore the need for targeted preventative and corrective strategies.