Abstract
Purpose :
The goal of this vision screening program (Program) is to identify children with amblyopic risk factors in order to prevent vision loss in young children. The Program offers thousands of free on-site vision screenings to preschool age children in their Head Start classrooms. With Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, the Program follows up on all screening referrals and assists with parent education, patient appointments and treatment. In addition to follow up, the Program analyzes data from the Head Start photoscreenings and eye exams to better understand amblyopia.
Methods :
Between 2015-2020 the Program screened Head Start children in their classrooms using a plusoptixS12 photoscreening device. The Program obtained guardian consent to perform free comprehensive dilated eye exams at local Head Start schools. Cycloplegic eye exams were performed by pediatric ophthalmologists on a mobile ophthalmology van and chart notes were analyzed.
Results :
From a screening population of 3,544 Head Start children, 337 were offered on-site eye exams. Exams were performed on 105 refers, 224 passes, and 8 who were not able to complete the vision screening. The mean age of the children with amblyopia was 4.42 years old. There were 22 girls and 15 boys diagnosed with amblyopia (37). Those diagnosed with amblyopia were found to have the following eye conditions (multiple conditions in some cases): 29 astigmatism, 13 hyperopia, 9 myopia, 6 anisometropia, 2 strabismus, 2 myopic astigmatism, 2 hyperopic astigmatism.
Conclusions :
Astigmatism is a leading cause of amblyopia in our Head Start population. Although most parents and pediatricians will detect strabismus (crossed-eyes), children with straight eyes often go undetected until amblyopia is difficult to treat. Screening for amblyopic risk factors is key to preventing vision loss. Annual preschool vision screenings, early intervention, and using an objective screening methodology with follow up, are key to preventing vision loss caused by amblyopia.
This abstract was presented at the 2024 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Seattle, WA, May 5-9, 2024.