Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

A red or green deficiency is most commonly found in what percentage of the population?

1. 2-4% of all males

2. 5-7% of all males

3. 8-10% of all males

4. 10-12% of all females

The correct answer is: 8-10% of all males

A red or green deficiency, also known as red-green color blindness, predominantly affects males due to its inheritance pattern. The defect is linked to the X chromosome, which means that males (who have one X and one Y chromosome) are more likely to express the deficiency if they inherit an affected X chromosome. Statistically, red-green color deficiencies occur in about 8% to 10% of the male population, making a choice indicating that percentage most accurate. The correct answer identifies this prevalence, reflecting the likelihood that approximately 8-10% of males experience this form of color vision deficiency. It's important to note that while color blindness can occur in females, it is significantly less common, with estimates closer to 0.5% affected. This genetic basis for the condition and its common rates support the chosen answer as the most representative of the population’s characteristics regarding red-green deficiency.