Abstract
Objective:
To evaluate visual acuity deficiency and its association with academic performance in schoolchildren.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was carried out with 1,050 students between 05 and 17 years of age from the public school system of Barcelos, Amazonas. The examination was performed at the school itself and with the aid of Snellen's Optometric Scale.
Results:
Of the 1,050 students submitted to the examination, 526 (50.1%) were female. The frequency for low acuity was 6.3% (66/1050). Among the students evaluated, there was no statistically significant difference at a 5% level for visual acuity and academic performance (p = 0.223).
Conclusion:
The study indicated a low frequency for visual deficit in the public school students of Barcelos - AM. In spite of this, it is advisable to carry out actions directed to eye health throughout the educational public network, aiming at prevention and early treatment of these students.
Keywords:
Visual Acuity; School Health; Health Education; Epidemiology; Eye Health