To identify the factors associated with vision screening in children.

This study included 4,827 young children 3-11 years of age who answered the question "Has [name] ever had an eye examination (vision screening) in the past year?" from The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2008-2012 (KNHANES). The trained interviewer asked the questions to a member of the household familiar with the study participant. The factors related to vision screening were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression.

The rate of vision screening gradually increased with age in young children between 3 (25.8%) and 11 years of age (72.5%). Regarding the rate by region, Busan had the highest rate (63.5%), followed by Daegu (62.2%) and Seoul (59.9%). Chungnam had the lowest rate (43.2%), followed by Chonbuk (44.6%) and Chonnam (44.9%). Higher income was associated with increased screening rate with marginal statistical significance (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=1.5 for 3rd quartile, 95% confidential interval [CI], 1.0-2.4 versus 1st quartile as a reference group). Households with 5 or more members were less likely to receive vision screening compared to households with 1 child (aOR=0.6, 95% CI, 0.4-0.8).

The rate of vision screening differed according to age group (25.8-72.5%) and region (43.2-63.5%). Regional disparity, low household income and large number of household members were barriers for vision screening in Korean children.