Factors Influencing Paediatric Spectacle Compliance in School-Based Vision Programmes in Ondo State

Spectacle provision for refractive errors in children is only effective when spectacles are consistently worn, yet compliance remains a documented challenge in school-based vision programmes, undermining their intended visual health impact. This study investigates factors influencing spectacle compliance among school-age children enrolled in the school-based vision programme in Ondo State, South West Nigeria. A prospective cohort study with a baseline survey and six-month follow-up will be conducted among 250 children aged 6 to 16 years who received spectacles through the Ondo State School Vision Screening Initiative. At baseline, data on age, sex, school type, refractive error degree, spectacle design, parental involvement, and prior spectacle use will be collected. At three-month and six-month follow-up visits, spectacle use will be verified by trained field workers using direct observation and parent report. Predictors of consistent spectacle wear will be identified through multivariable logistic regression. Research from sub-Saharan African school programmes consistently reports spectacle drop-out rates of 30 to 60 percent within six months, driven by breakage, loss, stigma, parental non-enforcement, and discomfort. South West Nigeria-specific data on these predictors are absent. This study fills that gap and generates evidence to guide the Ondo State Ministry of Education in designing improved spectacle distribution models. Recommendations will address child-friendly spectacle frame design, peer acceptance campaigns, parent engagement strategies, and school teacher roles in enforcement of spectacle wear. Keywords: spectacle compliance, school-based vision, children, Ondo State, refractive error