Epidemiology of Uncorrected Refractive Errors and Associated Risk Factors Among Military Personnel and Civilians at Lanud Sutan Sjarir Padang

Abstract

Introduction: Uncorrected refractive errors (URE) and presbyopia contribute significantly to avoidable visual impairment. Objective: This study assessed refractive disorders, URE, presbyopia, and associated demographic risk factors among screening participants at Lanud Sutan Sjahrir Padang. Method: A cross-sectional study involving 1,098 participants used visual acuity testing, autorefraction, subjective refraction, and near vision assessments. Risk factors were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression. Results and Discussion: Refractive disorders affected 37.52% of participants, including myopia (24.41%), astigmatism (9.47%), and hyperopia (3.64%). URE prevalence was 18.21%, while presbyopia affected 33.52%. Military personnel had lower URE prevalence than civilians. Independent risk factors included age (aOR = 2.84; 95% CI: 2.15–3.75), civilian status (aOR = 1.58; 95% CI: 1.21–2.06), and female sex (aOR = 1.32; 95% CI: 1.02–1.71). Conclusion: Routine eye screening should prioritize civilians and older adults, although findings may not represent the entire air base community