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Author Spotlight: An Automated Method for Assessing Visual Acuity in Infants and Toddlers Using an Eye-Tracking System
Published on: March 17, 2023
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Reduced visual acuity in children from 5 to 6 years old, with LEA chart
Amélia Fernandes Nunes1,2, F Sena3, R Calado4
1Department of Physics, Universidade da Beira Interior, 6200, Covilhã, Portugal. amnunes@ubi.pt.
Summary
A high rate of reduced visual acuity (VA) was found in 5-year-old children. Early detection and correction of vision problems are crucial for academic success and overall child development.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Optometry
- Public Health
Background:
- Reduced visual acuity (VA) in early childhood can significantly impact educational development.
- Amblyopia and uncorrected refractive errors are primary causes of decreased VA in children.
- Early identification of visual deficits is essential for timely intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess visual acuity in 5-year-old children using the LEA chart.
- To estimate the prevalence of reduced visual acuity in this specific age group.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 3072 preschool children (5-6 years old) in Portugal.
- Visual acuity was measured monocularly using 15-line LEA charts at 3 meters.
- The ETDRS-fast methodology was employed for VA assessment.
Main Results:
- A prevalence of 13.7% for reduced visual acuity was identified.
- Reduced VA was defined as acuity worse than or equal to 0.2 logMAR in at least one eye, or an interocular difference exceeding two lines.
- Participants were 51% male and 54% from rural areas.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights a high frequency of reduced VA in 5-6 year old children.
- Early detection and correction of vision impairments are vital to prevent negative effects on learning and development.
- Implementing screening programs before school entry is recommended to address these visual deficits.
