Rapid Assessments of Refractive Errors (RARE) in Kasganj District, Uttar Pradesh

RARE assessed uncorrected refractive errors (URE) and was conducted among 15- to 49-year-olds in Kasganj, UP, India. A cross-sectional study surveyed 3250 individuals, finding 3.56% spectacle use, higher in the 40-49 age group and educated females (15-29). Visual impairment prevalence was 1.9%, with URE causing 78%. Adjusted URE prevalence was 3.33%, higher in females. Spectacle coverage for females lagged, and refractive error coverage was 30.38%, highlighting gaps in meeting population needs. Challenges include distance and social reasons for 33% of females accessing eye care. Addressing these issues is crucial for easier access to eye care, reducing vision problems, and enhancing community health and quality of life.