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Association of state vision screening requirements with parent-reported vision testing in young children
John H Lillvis1, Denise F Lillvis2, Lorin M Towle-Miller3
1Ross Eye Institute, University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine, Buffalo, New York.
Insights
State policies requiring school vision screenings are linked to higher vision testing rates in young children (ages 3-5). This policy may help detect amblyopia and other serious eye conditions early.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Early vision screening is crucial for identifying potential sight-threatening conditions in children.
- State-level mandates for vision testing in schools aim to standardize and improve access to screening.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between state school vision screening requirements and the likelihood of vision testing in children aged 3-5 years.
- To determine if state policies influence parental-reported vision testing rates.
Main Methods:
- Utilized nationally representative data from the 2016 National Survey of Children's Health (n=7,567).
- Compiled state policies mandating childhood vision testing and calculated parent-reported vision testing rates per state.
- Employed logistic regression models with survey-based estimation, controlling for demographic factors and comorbidities.
Main Results:
- Parent-reported vision testing rates varied significantly across states (41%-84%).
- A significant positive association was found between state vision screening requirements and parent-reported testing (aOR=1.374, P=0.016), even after controlling for comorbidities.
- Certain comorbidities, including arthritis, blindness, and very low birth weight, were associated with higher screening rates.
Conclusions:
- State-level school vision screening requirements are associated with increased vision testing in preschool-aged children.
- These policies may play a vital role in ensuring timely detection of amblyopia and other serious eye conditions.
- Policy interventions can be effective in promoting essential health screenings for young children.
Purpose:
To examine the relationship between state school vision screening requirements and the likelihood that children 3-5 years of age receive vision testing.
Methods:
We obtained nationally representative data from the 2016 National Survey of Children's Health on children ages 3-5 (n = 7,567) and used available sources to compile state policies that mandate childhood vision testing. We calculated the rates of parent-reported vision testing for each state and fit logistic regression models using survey-based estimation methods with nationally representative weights. Our models controlled for factors such as age, sex, race/ethnicity, and insurance coverage. Additional analyses added comorbidities that may lead to an eye care provider referral.
Results:
Parent-reported vision testing rates by state ranged from 41% to 84%. A significant association was found between the presence of state-level vision screening requirements and parent-reported vision testing, which remained after controlling for comorbidities (aOR = 1.374; P = 0.016). Of these comorbidities, arthritis, blindness, and very low birth weight were associated with a higher rate of vision screening (all P < 0.05).
Conclusions:
The presence of a state-level school vision screening requirement is associated with increased parent-reported vision testing in children 3-5 years of age. This suggests that state policy may ensure timely screening for amblyopia and other sight-threatening complications.
