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Baseline vision results from the Baltimore Reading and Eye Disease Study
Megan E Collins1, Xinxing Guo2, Lucy I Mudie3
1Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Dana Center for Preventive Ophthalmology, Johns Hopkins University; Berman Institute of Bioethics, Johns Hopkins University.
Summary
One in nine elementary students require further eye evaluation, with common issues including hyperopia, myopia, astigmatism, and convergence insufficiency. School-based eye exams are feasible for detecting these vision problems.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Optometry
- Public Health
Background:
- Early detection of vision impairments in children is crucial for academic success and overall well-being.
- School-based vision screenings can identify children with ocular conditions who may not otherwise receive timely care.
- The Baltimore Reading and Eye Disease Study (BREDS) was initiated to assess ocular health in elementary school students.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the Baltimore Reading and Eye Disease Study (BREDS).
- To report baseline ocular findings in a cohort of second and third graders.
- To evaluate the feasibility of conducting comprehensive eye examinations within a school setting.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, school-based cohort study was conducted in 12 Baltimore public schools during the 2014-15 academic year.
- Baseline eye examinations included visual acuity (VA), stereopsis, ocular alignment, dilated retinal examination, and cycloplegic refraction.
- Data were collected on presenting VA, refractive error prevalence, and other ocular conditions.
Main Results:
- Of 1054 eligible students, 321 participated, predominantly African American (84.4%) and female (57.9%).
- The mean presenting distance and near VA were 0.1 ± 0.2 logMAR in the better-seeing eye.
- Prevalent ocular findings included hyperopia (34.7%), myopia (29.5%), astigmatism (23.4%), and convergence insufficiency (7.2%).
- 11.5% of children required referral, and 10% needed glasses.
Conclusions:
- While most students had good visual acuity, approximately 1 in 9 presented with an ocular finding requiring further evaluation.
- Conducting cycloplegic eye examinations in the school setting was demonstrated to be feasible.
- These findings highlight the importance of school-based eye care programs for early detection and intervention.
