AIM: To assess prevalence of poor vision among junior middle school and primary school students in Changsha, China and establish the theoretical basis for visual protection.

METHODS: All students in the junior middle schools and primary schools of Changsha were enrolled for vision examination from March to June in 2009, 2010, and 2011. Data obtained from the investigation was analyzed.

RESULTS: The incidence and severity of low vision increased during the three years. The incidence of low vision was 50.12%, 52.59% and 55.91% in 2009, 2010, and 2011 respectively. Female pupils had a higher incidence of low vision than males.

CONCLUSION:Poor vision is severe among junior middle school and primary school students in Changsha, especially among junior middle school students and female students. Parents and school teachers should pay more attention to this problem.