Public Health Policy Approaches to Enhancing Children’s Visual Acuity: Evaluating the Role of Physical Intervention Programs

Purpose: To investigate the effect of wearing eyeglasses in physical education classes on uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), kinetic visual acuity (KVA), and accommodative facility. Method: Participants were 54 fifth graders (10–11 years) with prescription lenses in China. One group wore their lenses in class while the other removed their lenses. Intervention took place over 15 weeks, three times per week. UDVA, KVA, and accommodation ability were measured before and after intervention. Results: The UDVA, KVA, and accommodation ability of both groups significantly improved from pre- to post-test (p < 0.01). UDVA and KVA difference between the groups was not significant, but the accommodative facility of the non-lens-wearing group was significantly higher than in lens wearers (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Physical education to enhance ciliary muscle function positively affects UDVA and KVA, and accommodative facility is especially enhanced for those not wearing glasses and with severe visual impairment.