Screening of pre-school children An epidemiological study

2482 children aged three to five years were examined by orthoptists in a screening procedure in Halle (former GDR). These screenings focused on monocular visual acuity tests with Pflüger's optotypes. 304 children were selected, apart from 100 already under ophthalmological treatment. All were invited for an examination at the University Clinic. Of 185 patients who came for an examination, 115 had findings calling for treatment. The prevalence of newly revealed squinters amounted to approximately 1 %, while the number of children with ametropias without squint was about five times higher. Administrative or legal regulations for ophthalmological preventive screening in early childhood are advocated.