Vision-Related Quality of Life Impact of Refractive Correction among Myopes in Kelantan

Nur Solehah Muzir; Noorhazayti Ab Halim; Imtiyaz Syaddad Mohamad Zailani; Somnath Ghosh; Md Mustafa Md-Muziman-Syah

Authors

Nur Solehah Muzir Department of Optometry and Visual Science, Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences, International Islamic University of Malaysia
Noorhazayti Ab Halim Department of Paediatric Dentistry and Dental Public Health, Kulliyyah of Dentistry, International Islamic University of Malaysia
Imtiyaz Syaddad Mohamad Zailani Optometris Keluarga, PT 1500, Tingkat Bawah, Jalan Kuala Krai, Bandar Baru Tunjung, 15150 Kota Bharu, Kelantan
Somnath Ghosh Department of Allied Health Science and Technology, Kazi Nazrul University, Asansol, West Bengal, India
Md Mustafa Md-Muziman-Syah Children Health and Well-Being Research Group, Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia, 25200 Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia

Keywords:

Myopia, quality of life, refractive correction, spectacles, contact lenses, patient-reported outcome

Abstract

Uncorrected refractive errors, particularly myopia, can significantly affect an individual's vision-related quality of life (VRQoL). While refractive correction with spectacles or contact lenses is common, its actual impact on patients’ functional and emotional well-being remains underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate the VRQoL of myopic individuals using their current refractive correction. A cross-sectional study was conducted at four optometry practices in urban and suburban areas of Kelantan, Malaysia. A total of 54 myopic participants aged 18 to 39 years were recruited through convenience sampling. Participants completed the validated Malay version of the Quality of Life Impact of Refractive Correction questionnaire. Overall and emotional VRQoL scores were derived and analysed. Results showed that the magnitude of refractive correction significantly influenced overall VRQoL, with participants wearing correction of spherical equivalent refraction (SER) ≥ 3.00 D reporting lower overall VRQoL scores than those with SER < 3.00 D. Age and gender significantly influenced emotional VRQoL, with males and the middle-aged adult group of 30 to 39 years reporting better emotional well-being. In conclusion, specific demographic and refractive correction characteristics impact overall and emotional aspects of VRQoL. These findings underscore the need for personalised optometric care and support systems that address not only refractive correction but also psychological well-being in myopic patients.