To review existing data for the prevalence of corrected, uncorrected, and inadequately
corrected refractive errors and spectacle wear in Hungary.Data from two nationwide
cross-sectional studies were analysed. The Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness
study collected population-based representative national data on the prevalence of
visual impairment due to uncorrected refractive errors and spectacle coverage in 3523
people aged ≥50y (Group I). The Comprehensive Health Test Program of Hungary provided
data on the use of spectacles in 80 290 people aged ≥18y (Group II).In Group I, almost
half of the survey population showed refractive errors for distant vision, about 10%
of which were uncorrected (3.2% of all male participants and 5.0% of females). The
distance spectacle coverage was 90.7% (91.9% in males; 90.2% in females). The proportion
of inadequate distance spectacles was found to be 33.1%. Uncorrected presbyopia was
found in 15.7% of participants. In all age groups (Group II), 65.4% of females and
56.0% of males used distance spectacles, and approximately 28.9% of these spectacles
were found to be inappropriate for dioptric power (with 0.5 dioptres or more). The
prevalence of inaccurate distance spectacles was significantly higher in older age
groups (71y and above) in both sexes.According to this population-based data, uncorrected
refractive errors are not rare in Hungary. Despite recent national initiatives, further
steps are required to reduce uncorrected refractive errors and associated negative
effects on vision, such as avoidable visual impairment.
