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Refractive errors and amblyopia in children entering school: Shahrood, Iran
Payman Jamali1, Akbar Fotouhi, Hassan Hashemi
1Shahrood Welfare Organization, Shahrood, Iran.
Summary
This study found that a significant number of 6-year-olds have amblyopia, strabismus, and refractive errors, highlighting the need for early eye care. Many children at risk for amblyopia had significant refractive errors or strabismus.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Optometry
- Public Health
Background:
- Early detection of visual impairments in children is crucial for preventing long-term vision loss.
- Amblyopia, strabismus, and refractive errors are common childhood eye conditions that can impact academic and social development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of amblyopia, strabismus, and various refractive errors in 6-year-old children.
- To identify the proportion of children at risk for amblyopia due to refractive errors or strabismus.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional, population-based study involving 815 six-year-old children in Shahrood schools.
- Ocular alignment, visual acuity, stereopsis, cover testing, and cycloplegic refraction were performed by an optometrist.
- Amblyopia diagnosis was based on best-corrected visual acuity criteria.
Main Results:
- The prevalence of amblyopia was 1.7%, and reduced visual acuity was 3.6%.
- Refractive errors included hyperopia (20.5%), astigmatism (19.6%), and anisometropia (2.2%).
- Strabismus was diagnosed in 1.2% of children, with 6.4% identified as at risk for amblyopia.
Conclusions:
- A considerable proportion of 6-year-old children exhibit strabismus and/or significant refractive errors.
- High rates of hyperopia and astigmatism warrant further attention and screening.
- The findings underscore the necessity of accessible diagnostic and therapeutic eye care services for preschool-aged children.
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