Seeing beyond vision: A comparative study of intelligence, academics, and lifestyle in myopic and non-myopic medical students.

Abstract

Objective: To compare intelligence (IQ), academic performance, and lifestyle factors between myopic and non-myopic undergraduate medical students, while also evaluating demographic, familial, and environmental risk factors associated with myopia. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: CMH Lahore Medical College Lahore. Period: February to April 2025. Methods: Involving 302 undergraduate students (180 myopic, 120 non-myopic) from medical, dental, nursing, and allied health programs in medical college, Lahore, Pakistan. Participants were selected via non-probability convenience sampling. Data were collected on eyesight status, academic grades (matriculation, intermediate, and GPA), IQ levels, lifestyle habits (screen time, outdoor activities, posture), and familial myopia history. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests and independent sample t-tests, with a significance threshold of p < 0.05. Results: No significant differences were found between myopic and non-myopic students in IQ levels (myopic: 94.3 ± 23.1 vs. non-myopic: 96.2 ± 24.0; p = 0.419) or academic performance (GPA: 3.30 ± 0.50 vs. 3.29 ± 0.51; p = 0.864). Lifestyle factors, including screen time, study hours, and outdoor activities, also showed no significant associations (p > 0.05). A weak positive correlation was observed between myopia and paternal eyesight weakness (p = 0.048), but maternal myopia and family history of hypertension were not significant. Poor posture during studying was more prevalent among myopic students, though statistically insignificant (p = 0.174). Conclusion: Myopia prevalence was high (60%) among students, but no significant links were found with IQ, academics, or most lifestyle factors. The study highlights the need for awareness about eye health and debunks stereotypes linking myopia with intelligence.