Impact d’un Programme Communautaire de Dotation en Lunettes sur la Fonction Visuelle, les Performances Scolaires et l’Intégration Sociale chez 115 Élèves à Libreville: Impact of a Community-Based Eyeglasses Provision Program on Visual Function, Academic Performance, and Social Integration among 115 Schoolchildren in Libreville

Abstract

Introduction. Uncorrected refractive errors are a major cause of avoidable visual impairment in children. In Libreville, access to corrective lenses remains limited, particularly for students from underprivileged backgrounds. This study aims to evaluate the impact of a community-based free eyewear program on visual function, academic performance, and social integration among students in Libreville. Patients and Methods. This was a prospective, before-and-after interventional study without a control group, conducted in six schools in Libreville. After visual acuity screening, suspected cases underwent a comprehensive ophthalmological examination. Students with correctable refractive errors received free eyeglasses through community funding. The variables studied were visual acuity, academic performance, and social integration, assessed before and after the intervention. Results. A total of 115 students were included. The mean age was 11.2 ± 2.3 years. Following optical correction, the mean visual acuity increased from 5.4/10 to 9.1/10. Clinical improvement was observed in 95.7% of the students. Academic performance improved in 87.8% of the children, particularly in concentration and reading. Better social integration was reported by 78.3% of the students, without significant stigmatization. Conclusion. A community-based eyewear program significantly improves visual function, academic performance, and social integration in children. It represents an effective public health strategy in resource-limited settings.