DEPARTMENT OF OPTOMETRY

Non-communicable diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes, and glaucoma cause serious health issues and hardships in sub-Saharan Africa, often made worse by a lack of access to regular medical services. This research examines how the leaf extracts from Sorghum bicolor and Andrographis paniculata affect blood pressure, blood sugar, and eye pressure in healthy adults, both separately and together. One hundred and seventy-four (174) participants (mean age 34.3 ± 7.1 years) received single administrations of hot aqueous extracts of S. bicolor, A. paniculata, or a 1:1 mixed extract. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (mmHg), fasting blood glucose (mg/dL) and IOP (mmHg, right eye [RE] and left eye [LE]) were measured at baseline and four hours post- administration. The results revealed statistically significant reductions (p < 0.05) across all parameters in all treatment groups. For Sorghum bicolor, systolic pressure decreased from 126.15 ± 15.9 to 120.80 ± 15.0 mmHg, diastolic pressure from 85.60 ± 11.1 to 80.03 ± 10.4 mmHg, blood glucose from 82.86 ± 14.61 to 70.39 ± 11.99 mg/dL, and IOP from 16.88 ± 2.5 to 15.83 ± 1.6 mmHg (right eye) and from 17.14 ± 1.93 to 16.12 ± 1.8 mmHg (left eye). Similar reductions were observed with Andrographis paniculata, where systolic pressure fell from 129.44 ± 14.7 to 121.20 ± 16.9 mmHg, diastolic pressure from 84.60 ± 13.3 to 77.13 ± 11.4 mmHg, and blood glucose from 83.61 ± 13.2 to 75.26 ± 11.43 mg/dL, while IOP decreased to 14.49 ± 2.0 mmHg (right) and 15.98 ± 2.0 mmHg (left). The combined extract produced the greatest effect, with systolic pressure reducing from 134.63 ± 15.7 to 128.68 ± 15.9 mmHg, diastolic pressure from 87.10 ± 22.1 to 77.90 ± 12.2 mmHg, blood glucose from 80.42 ± 12.04 to 74.40 ± 10.20 mg/dL, and IOP from 15.94 ± 1.8 to 14.94 ± 2.0 mmHg (right) and 15.67 ± 1.5 to 15.13 ± 2.7 mmHg (left). These results demonstrate that both Sorghum bicolor and Andrographis paniculata extracts—singularly and in combination—can significantly lower blood pressure, blood glucose, and intraocular pressure within a short period following administration. The enhanced effects observed with the combined extract suggest possible synergistic interactions between their phytochemical constituents.

Background: Dual sensory impairment, involving both visual and auditory deficiencies, significantly impacts an individual’s ability to communicate, learn, and navigate their environment. Research suggested that hearing-impaired individuals were at a higher risk of developing ocular abnormalities, including refractive errors and contrast sensitivity deficits. Given their reliance on vision for communication, understanding the prevalence and nature of visual impairment in this population was crucial for effective healthcare interventions. Purpose: To determine the relationship between visual and hearing impairment in affected individuals. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the school for the hearing impaired in Benin City using purposive sampling. Participants were selected based on inclusion criteria, with demographic and hearing-impairment data obtained from school records and teachers. Visual assessments included Tumbling E visual acuity testing, ophthalmoscopy, retinoscopy, subjective refraction, contrast sensitivity testing using the Pelli-Robson chart, and cover test. Data were collected using structured forms and analyzed using SPSS Version 25.0. Data Analysis: Descriptive and inferential statistical methods were employed. The prevalence of visual impairment and contrast sensitivity abnormalities was determined. Chi-square tests assessed associations between age, gender, and dual sensory impairment. Results: Among the 100 hearing-impaired participants examined, hyperopia (34%) was the most common refractive anomaly, followed by compound hyperopic astigmatism (15%), while mixed astigmatism (4%) was the least. Visual impairment before correction was 6%, and after refraction, normal vision increased to 96% with 2% impaired. Contrast sensitivity was normal in 96% of participants, with 2% showing mild reduction. No severe visual impairment, blindness, or significant association with age or gender was found. Conclusion: Hearing-impaired individuals showed a high prevalence of correctable refractive errors. Most visual deficits improved with refraction, underscoring the importance of routine vision screening and timely optical correction in schools for the hearing impaired. Contribution to Optometry: This study provided valuable insights into the relationship between visual and auditory impairments, supporting improved screening and management strategies for individuals with dual sensory impairment.

Sustained near work has become a common visual demand in this digital era, often placing considerable strain on the accommodative and vergence systems, particularly in individuals with uncorrected refractive errors such as low hyperopia. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of sustained near work on accommodative and vergence parameters in individuals with low uncorrected hyperopia and to assess the influence of optical correction on these visual functions. Fifty-five participants consisting of 12 males and 43 females aged between 16–30 years (with mean age 20 ± 2.0 years) with low uncorrected hyperopia were assessed. Baseline measurements of amplitude of accommodation (AA), positive and negative relative accommodation (PRA, NRA), near point of convergence (NPC), and fusional vergence ranges (PFV and NFV) were obtained. Thereafter the subjects were made to read a printed text with Times New Roman font size 12 for 30 minutes first without correction and thereafter for another 30 minutes with correction. Post-task measurements for each were taken. Result obtained showed a systemic increase in mean AA (9.70 ±2.40 D to 10.30 ± 2.60 D) and PRA (-4.90 ± 1.48 D to -5.45 ± 1.36 D) and a decrease in PFV (BO to Break 20.00 ± 5.00Δ to 17.00 ± 6.00Δ) while there was minimal to no change in NRA (+2.82 ± 0.76 D to +2.50 ± 0.59 D) and NFV (BI to Break 14.00 ± 4.00 Δ) before and after sustained near task without correction. Also, there was an increase in mean AA (9.70 ±2.40 D to 11.30 ± 3.40 D) and PRA (-4.90 ± 1.48 D to -5.78 ± 1.66 D) and a decrease in PFV (BO to Break 20.00 ± 5.00Δ to 17.00 ± 7.00Δ) while there was minimal to no change in NRA (+2.82 ± 0.76 D to +2.30 ± 0.47 D) and NFV (BI to Break 15.00 ± 4.00 Δ) pretask and post-task with correction. The result was analyzed using Friedman’s ANOVA and repeated measures ANOVA to compare pre- and post-task differences. This showed a significant difference between AA, PRA and PFV without and with correction (Z = −3.289, p = 0.003; F = 19.63, p < 0.001 and Z = 3.194, p < 0.001 respectively). However, there was no significant difference between pre and post task NRA, NPC and NFV without and with correction (p > 0.001). The findings suggest that sustained near work imposes temporary stress on the accommodative and vergence systems in individuals with low uncorrected hyperopia, and that optical correction effectively reduces this strain, improving visual comfort and performance during prolonged near tasks.

Background: Ophthalmic self-medication, the practice of using drugs without the advice or prescription of a qualified eye care professional. Assessing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of students regarding ophthalmic self-medication is important in understanding their health-seeking behavior and identifying areas that may require educational or public health attention. Purpose: This study aims to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practices of ophthalmic self-medication among students of the University of Benin, Edo State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study will be conducted among undergraduate students of the University of Benin using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire will consist of four sections: socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of ophthalmic self-medication, attitudes towards the practice, and reported self-medication behaviors. Data Analysis: Data collected will be coded and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 25.0 by IBM. Descriptive statistics will be used to summarize the data, while inferential statistics such as Chi-square tests will be employed to determine associations between variables such as gender, faculty, and level of study with knowledge, attitude and practice of self-medication. Contribution to Optometry: The findings from this research will provide valuable insights into the extent and determinants of ophthalmic self-medication among university students. It will help guide public health interventions, enhance eye health education, and support evidence-based advocacy to reduce harmful self-medication practices. Furthermore, the study will contribute to improving the role of optometrists in preventive eye care and health promotion among young adults. Keywords: Ophthalmic self-medication, Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, University of Benin, Public Health, Eye Care

This study comprehensively examined the awareness and practice of visual hygiene among undergraduate students of the University of Benin, Benin City, with a focus on evaluating their level of knowledge, behavioral compliance, and the major barriers influencing adherence to recommended visual health practices. Employing a descriptive cross-sectional research design, data were collected from 428 undergraduate students selected across various faculties through a structured, self-administered questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0. The findings revealed a moderate level of awareness (68.2%) regarding visual hygiene principles, as the majority of students demonstrated understanding of fundamental aspects such as adjusting screen brightness (71.3%) and using adequate lighting (65.2%). However, fewer respondents were aware of key preventive and behavioural components including maintaining correct posture (51.2%), practicing regular blinking to prevent dry eye (44.6%), undergoing routine eye examinations (33.9%), and eating a diet rich in eye-healthy nutrients (27.3%). The level of practice was also found to be low (45.6%), as most students reported spending an average of three to six hours daily on digital screens but showed poor compliance with preventive strategies such as taking regular breaks and maintaining ergonomic posture. The use of eye care services was largely reactive, with 58.0% of respondents visiting the eye clinic only when visual symptoms occurred. The study also revealed that behavioural barriers such as forgetfulness (46.7%), time constraints, and low motivation significantly hindered the consistent application of good visual hygiene practices. Furthermore, chi-square analysis indicated no statistically significant relationship between faculty of study and awareness levels (p>0.05), suggesting that knowledge of visual hygiene was generally uniform across disciplines. The study concludes that although undergraduate students of the University of Benin possess moderate awareness of visual hygiene, their actual practices remain inadequate, revealing a persistent knowledge–practice gap. It therefore recommends the implementation of continuous educational interventions, integration of visual hygiene modules into university curricula, and the establishment of institutional support systems to promote preventive eye-care culture and sustainable behavioral change among

Caffeine is a widely consumed stimulant known to affect both visual and systemic physiology through activation of the sympathetic nervous system. This study investigated the short-term effects of caffeine consumption on amplitude of accommodation (AA), near point of convergence (NPC), pupil size, and blood pressure (BP). Forty healthy participants aged 18–30 years were recruited and assessed at baseline, 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes following ingestion of a caffeine-containing beverage (160 mg/500 mL). Standard clinical procedures were used: the push-up to blur technique for AA, RAF rule for NPC, pupillary distance ruler
for pupil diameter, and sphygmomanometer for BP. Data were analyzed using Friedman and Repeated Measures ANOVA tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results revealed a significant increase in amplitude of accommodation (p < 0.001), indicating enhanced focusing ability, while near point of convergence slightly receded, suggesting a temporary reduction in binocular efficiency. Pupil size increased, peaking at 90 minutes, and systolic blood pressure rose steadily across all time points (p < 0.001). In conclusion, caffeine exerts short-term, measurable effects on both ocular and cardiovascular functions. These
findings underscore the influence of caffeine-induced sympathetic stimulation on visual performance and systemic physiology, emphasizing the need to consider recent caffeine intake during clinical evaluations.

This study comprehensively examined the awareness and practice of visual hygiene among undergraduate students of the University of Benin, Benin City, with a focus on evaluating their level of knowledge, behavioural compliance, and the major barriers influencing adherence to recommended visual health practices. Employing a descriptive cross-sectional research design, data were collected from 428 undergraduate students selected across various faculties through a structured, self-administered questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0. The findings revealed a moderate level of awareness (68.2%) regarding visual hygiene principles, as the majority of students demonstrated understanding of fundamental aspects such as adjusting screen brightness (71.3%) and using adequate lighting (65.2%). However, fewer respondents were aware of key preventive and behavioural components including maintaining correct posture (51.2%), practicing regular blinking to prevent dry eye (44.6%), undergoing routine eye examinations (33.9%), and eating a diet rich in eye-healthy nutrients (27.3%). The level of practice was also found to be low (45.6%), as most students reported spending an average of three to six hours daily on digital screens but showed poor compliance with preventive strategies such as taking regular breaks and maintaining ergonomic posture. The use of eye care services was largely reactive, with 58.0% of respondents visiting the eye clinic only when visual symptoms occurred. The study also revealed that behavioural barriers such as forgetfulness (46.7%), time constraints, and low motivation significantly hindered the consistent application of good visual hygiene practices. Furthermore, chi-square analysis indicated no statistically significant relationship between faculty of study and awareness levels (p>0.05), suggesting that knowledge of visual hygiene was generally uniform across disciplines. The study concludes that although undergraduate students of the University of Benin possess moderate awareness of visual hygiene, their actual practices remain inadequate, revealing a persistent knowledge–practice gap. Ittherefore recommends the implementation of continuous educational interventions, integration ofvisual hygiene modules into university curricula, and the establishment of institutional support.

Extracts from different parts of the Newbouldia laevis plant (leaves, stem bark and roots bark), have been shown to possess antimicrobial, anti-malarial, antioxidant, nociceptive and anti inflammatory properties. Previous experiments carried out have shown that the extracts from the leaf, stem bark and root bark have anti- inflammatory. But none of these studies have ascertained the IOP reducing effect of the extracts from the leaf, stem bark and root bark of the Newbouldia laevis plant in the eyes which was studied in this investigative work. This study aimed to investigate the effects of ethanolic extracts of Newbouldia laevis leaves, stems, and roots on physically induced corneo-conjunctival inflammation and increased intraocular pressure (IOP) in rabbits. Thirty (30) rabbits were used for this study and these rabbits were grouped into six ranging from group A through to group F. Each of the six experimental groups was treated with different extract (leaf, stem, or root) of Newbouldia laevis, while the control group was treated with sterile water. From the study, it was found that all three extracts (leaf, stem, and root) were effective in reducing corneal inflammation and increased IOP, and showed significant differences compared to the control group. ANOVA analysis used on the study showed the statical significant values (p < 0.005 was taken to be statistically significant) of the various treatments for corneal inflammation, ranging from group A- C having p values of: 0.002, 0.001,0.265, respectively and induced IOP having p values of: 0.002, 0.002, and 0.001, respectively. During the course of this study, the leaf extract was found to be the most potent in the treatment of both the inflammation and induced IOP.

Background: Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and blood pressure are risk factors for various health conditions. Cocos nucifera (coconut) extract has been suggested to possess potential hypotensive and IOP-lowering properties. Purpose: This study investigated the effects of graded doses of Cocos nucifera extract on IOP, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) in normotensive subjects. Methods: Forty normotensive participants were divided into four groups (n=10 per group): three receiving different doses of Cocos nucifera extract (2.86 g/kg, 5.71 g/kg, and 8.57 g/kg body weight) and a control group receiving 300 ml of water. IOP and blood pressure were measured before and hourly for four hours after administration. Statistical analyses included independent sample t-tests to compare each extract group to the control and ANOVA to assess differences across the extract dosage groups. Results: Significant reductions in mean IOP were observed in all extract groups compared to the control (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). While all doses lowered IOP compared to control, differences between the extract doses were not statistically significant (p = 0.308). For DBP, all extract groups showed significant reductions compared to the control (p < 0.01 for the 2.86 g/kg group, p < 0.001 for the 5.71 g/kg and 8.57 g/kg groups), with a significant dose-dependent effect observed across the extract groups (p < 0.001). For SBP, only the 5.71 g/kg group showed a significant reduction compared to the control (p < 0.001), although the ANOVA showed a significant overall effect of the extract across the dosage groups (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Cocos nucifera extract demonstrates potential IOP-lowering and DBP-reducing effects in normotensive subjects. The effect on DBP appears to be dose dependent. Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms of action and long-term effects.

Background: Intraocular pressure (IOP) is a key physiological parameter that maintains the structural integrity of the eye and plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. Although normal IOP values are well established in adults, there remains limited data regarding its distribution and influencing factors among children in Nigeria. This study aimed to assess the
distribution of intraocular pressure among school-aged children in Benin City, Nigeria, and to evaluate variations in relation to age, gender, and body mass index (BMI). Data Analysis: A cross-sectional design was adopted, involving 568 children aged 6–14 years selected from public and private schools in Benin City through stratified random sampling. Ethical approval and
informed consent were obtained prior to participation. Data were collected using a structured form and IOP was measured with a non-contact tonometer. Anthropometric parameters were recorded to calculate BMI. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, Spearman’s rank correlation, and the Mann–Whitney U test, were conducted using SPSS version 26, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: results showed a mean IOP of 17 ± 2 mmHg, with values ranging between 14 and 21 mmHg. A strong positive correlation was observed between IOP and age (Spearman’s rho = 0.827, p < 0.001), while a moderate positive correlation was found between IOP and BMI (Spearman’s rho = 0.633, p < 0.001). There was also a statistically significant difference in IOP between male and female participants (p = 0.027). Conclusion: The study concludes that Nigerian children demonstrate IOP distributions consistent with international findings, but population-specific reference values are required for accurate clinical
assessment.