Analysis Of Refractive Error In Sonora, Mexico.

Background: This research study aims to classify the refractive error of a group of inhabitants of the state of Sonora, Mexico. Clinics were located in Empalme and Santa Maria, Sonora, Mexico. The ultimate goal is to allow better preparation for future mission trips to the same region. Methods: The data was collected over the course of 4 clinic days from patients presenting to a non-profit clinic sponsored by Volunteer's for Optometric Services to Humanity of Michigan. The volunteers collecting the data were Optometry students and Doctors of Optometry. The data was collected and analyzed. Confidentiality of the information was maintained, as identifying information was not included with refractive error data. Results: Females outnumbered males in this study. The most prevalent refractive error was
simple hyperopia less than 2 diopters. The least common was mixed astigmatism. Close to half of the patients were presbyopic. A little over half received sunglasses. Conclusion: Future optometric missions may prepare using the data collected on this mission. Low hyperopic error is most prevalent and glasses selection may be adjusted accordingly to this fact. Against the rule astigmatism is most prevalent of all types of astigmatism and may also be considered when selecting lenses to bring on future missions.