Visual Characteristics In A Group Of High-Performance Athletes From Boca Juniors Futbol Club, Argentina

To evaluate the visual health characteristics and conditions of soccer players from one of the top first-division soccer clubs in Argentina.
Detection of visual defects that could impact in training and competitions global performance. Importance of clinical evaluations in players and importance of educating athletes, coaches, and managers about visual health care.

178 players from all youth divisions of Boca Juniors ( 4ta,5ta,6ta,7ma,8va,9na division), were evaluated at the club's training facility in La Boca, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Inclusion criteria: young men between 14 and 20 years old from the lower divisions of the Boca Juniors club. The evaluation tests done were: visual acuity (Snellen chart), biomicroscopy,
Goldman applanation tonometry, color vision test (Ishihara test), ocular dominance, and visual field testing (Humphrey 24-2).

The results were as follows: 63% of players had uncorrected visual acuity (VA) of 20/20 or better, 32% had VA <20/30, left ocular dominance was higher than right, elevated or borderline intraocular pressure was found in 8 patients (14.24%), and color vision impairment was observed in 7 patients (12.46%). No significant visual field defects were observed in the visual field tests.

Priority attention will be given to players with elevated or borderline intraocular pressure.
Reference correction of refractive errors is needed.
Monitoring for potential visual field defects is crucial.
The aim is to promote the concept of comprehensive vision prevention and control in professional soccer players.