Associations Between Reading and Writing Posture and Myopia Among School Students in Ningbo, China

Abstract Purpose: We conducted this study to examine the prevalence of myopia among school students in Ningbo, and to explore the associations between reading and writing posture and myopia.Methods: A population-based and cross-sectional investigation was performed and 3256 school students aged 8 to 19 years old were recruited. Each enrolled subject underwent uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) assessment using a standard logarithmic visual acuity E chart and non-cycloplegic autorefraction examination. Self-administered questionnaires were used to investigate myopia-related reading and writing posture and behavior habits.Results: Myopia prevalence of primary school students, middle school students and high school students were 61.49%, 81.43% and 89.72%, respectively. In the associations between reading and writing posture and myopia, we identified keeping the distance between the eyes and the book could be the protective factor in female students, and in both primary school students and middle school students.Conclusions: Keeping appropriate distance between the eyes and the book may be good for myopia prevention and control. We hope this work will bring educational and public health benefits to form appropriate reading and writing posture.