V I S I O N B L O G
Vision Problems in Preschoolers
As many as 1 in 4 Preschoolers has a vision problem that needs attention
Two large studies have recently been published indicating that more preschoolers may have vision problems than previously thought. The studies funded by the National Institutes of Health examined more than 9,000 children between the ages of 6 months and 6 years. The studies were published in the October issue of Opthalmology.
The studies showed that even mild problems left untreated in children may lead to permanent vision loss. In addition the studies identified several major risk factors for vision problems in preschoolers. Exposure to smoke and poor access to health insurance were two that were identified.
Previous research had shown that children with moderate to severe refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism) are at an increased risk of more serious problems. The new studies show for the first time that even mild refractive errors increase risk. Refractive errors are treatable and can be corrected with eyeglasses therefore reducing the risk of more serious problems.
The studies also found that 2 percent of preschoolers had cross eyes (strabismus) and 5 percent had lazy eye (amblyopia). If left untreated both of these conditions can lead to permanent vision loss.