Objectives: Refractive errors (RE) are defined as an error in focusing light on the retina and are a frequent reason for reduced visual acuity. The 3 most common types of RE are: myopia, which is difficulty seeing distant objects clearly; hypermetropia, which is difficulty seeing close objects clearly; and astigmatism, which is distorted vision resulting from an irregularly curved cornea. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of RE among medical students at Al-Mustansiriya Medical College and to evaluate associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Al-Mustansiriya Medical College to assess RE among medical students. The data collectors were divided into 6 groups to gather data provided by the students of each annual cohort. Some incomplete forms were excluded. Results: In this study, it was determined that about 33% of all students at Al-Mustansiriya Medical College had RE, with myopia being the most prevalent type (57.58%), especially in the fourth year students (25%), while the least common was hypermetropia (2.73%). There was quite a difference in the ratio of males and females with RE (38.48% and 61.52%, respectively). Conclusion: Myopia was the most common eye problem observed among medical students. The incidence of myopia was greater in females than in males in all cohorts.
Corresponding Author: Alaa Ali Salih