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Magakwe TSS, Hansraj R, Xulu-Kasaba ZN. Vision-Specific Tools for the Assessment of Health-Related Quality of Life (HR-QoL) in Children and Adolescents with Visual Impairment: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:1009. [PMID: 39200621 PMCID: PMC11354845 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21081009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024]
Abstract
Vision-related quality-of-life (QoL) measures offer a comprehensive evaluation of the impact of eye conditions and the effectiveness of treatment on important aspects of QoL. A substantial number of tools for assessing health-related quality of life (HR-QoL) in adults have been reviewed. However, despite the high prevalence of uncorrected refractive errors causing visual impairment (VI) in children, there is a notable lack of similar tools for this vulnerable population. This review aimed to systemically map evidence on the availability and use of vision-specific instruments for assessing HR-QoL in children and adolescents with VI. This review follows the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines (2020) and the framework by Arksey and O'Malley and Levac et al. (2010). We conducted systematic searches through databases PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus and search platforms Web of Science and EBSCOhost to source reviews published in English from the date of their inception to December 2023. The findings are reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). We reviewed twenty tools, nine of which were developed for children in the United States and three of which were developed for children in developing countries; no tools specifically developed for children in Africa were found. In the reviewed papers, the tools were presented to children, parents, or proxies in an interview or questionnaire format. For most of the tools, reliability was assessed using internal consistency (n = 12) and test-retest reliability (n = 12). The most dominant measures of validity were construct (n = 16), content (n = 8), internal (n = 4), and criterion (n = 4). There appears to be a need for more tools developed for children in middle-low-income countries, especially for African children.
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Duelund N, Nisted I, Jørgensen ME, Heegaard S, Jensen H. Vision screening and refraction of Greenlandic schoolchildren. Acta Ophthalmol 2024. [PMID: 39004821 DOI: 10.1111/aos.16740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To estimate the prevalence of amblyopia and refractive errors among 6-year-old children in Greenland and to assess the impact of incorporating autorefraction, stereoacuity and near visual acuity testing into vision screening. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, 517 children (238 girls and 279 boys) from 21 locations in Greenland were screened using HOTV charts for distance and near visual acuity (VA), stereoacuity test and non-cycloplegic autorefraction. Referral criteria for further ophthalmological examination included a VA of ≥0.2 logMAR on the worse-seeing eye or an interocular VA difference of ≥2 lines. RESULTS Initial screening identified amblyopia (defined as VA of ≥0.3 logMAR) in 7% (unilateral) and 3% (bilateral) of children. However, subsequent ophthalmological examinations confirmed amblyopia in under 40% of referrals. Significant interocular VA differences were found in 9%. The prevalence of refractive errors at the screening was 3% for myopia (≤-0.5 dioptres), 10% for hyperopia (>+2.0 dioptres) and 14% for astigmatism (≤-1.00 dioptres), while the corresponding prevalences at the ophthalmological examination were 4% for myopia, 8% for hyperopia and 6% for astigmatism. Combining screening measurements increased the positive predictive values, thereby enhancing screening accuracy. Specifically, the incorporation of autorefraction or stereoacuity with distance VA demonstrated to be the most effective combination. Six percent of the children were prescribed glasses after the screening procedure. CONCLUSION This study provides the first visual profile of Greenlandic schoolchildren. Incorporating autorefraction, stereoacuity and near visual acuity in vision screenings enhanced the efficacy of detection of vision anomalies. Although this may lead to more false positives, accurate screening is crucial in regions with limited ophthalmological resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Duelund
- Queen Ingrids Healthcare Center, Nuuk, Greenland
- Greenland Center of Health Research, Institute of Health and Nature, Ilisimatusarfik University of Greenland, Nuuk, Greenland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ivan Nisted
- Danish College of Optometry and Vision Science, Dania Academy, Randers, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Marit Eika Jørgensen
- Greenland Center of Health Research, Institute of Health and Nature, Ilisimatusarfik University of Greenland, Nuuk, Greenland
- Steno Diabetes Center Greenland, Nuuk, Greenland
- University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Steffen Heegaard
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Hanne Jensen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Liu Z, Herold F, Owen N, Huang Z, Kuang J, Kramer AF, Ng JL, Zou L. Associations of meeting 24-hour movement behavior guidelines with prescribed eyeglasses/contact lenses among children and adolescents. Complement Ther Clin Pract 2024; 55:101844. [PMID: 38521002 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2024.101844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vision health is crucial for many aspects of life especially in developing populations such as children and adolescents. However, there is a high proportion of children and adolescents who suffer from visual impairments. Notably, accumulating evidence indicates that meeting the 24-hour movement behaviors (24-HMB) guidelines is associated with positive physical and mental health outcomes in children and adolescents. However, the relationship between being prescribed eyeglasses/contact lenses and meeting the 24-HMB guidelines has yet to be investigated. Thus, this study aimed to address this gap in the existing literature by using the 2021 National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH) dataset. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, data was retrieved from the 2021 NSCH. A total of 14,193 U.S. children and adolescents aged between 6 and 17 years were included for data analyses. We used items of the NSCH concerning the 24-HMB guidelines (i.e., physical activity, screen time, and sleep duration) and prescription of eyeglasses/contact lenses that were answered by the legal guardian of the children. Binary logistic regression was performed to investigate whether meeting the 24-HMB guidelines is associated with prescription eyeglasses/contact lenses and whether wearing eyeglasses/contact lenses predicts adherence to the 24-HMB guidelines among children and adolescents. RESULTS More than half of the participants (59.53%) wore eyeglasses/contact lenses and only 8.40% of them met all three of the 24-HMB guidelines. Compared to meeting none of the 24-HMB guidelines, meeting one (OR = 0.76, 95% CI = 0.62-0.93, p = 0.008), two (OR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.43-0.67, p < 0.001), and all three 24-HMB guidelines (OR = 0.47, 95% CI = 0.34-0.64, p < 0.001) were associated with a lower risk of being prescribed eyeglasses/contact lenses among children and adolescents. CONCLUSIONS The findings of the current study provided evidence that the prevalence of U.S. children and adolescents aged between 6 and 17 years who wore eyeglasses/contact lenses was relatively high. Furthermore, meeting the 24-HMB guidelines was associated with a lower risk of being prescribed eyeglasses/contact lenses. Future studies focusing on the effects of 24-HMB interventions on vision health among children and adolescents are needed to better inform public health actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijun Liu
- Body-Brain-Mind Laboratory, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Fabian Herold
- Research Group Degenerative and Chronic Diseases, Movement, Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Neville Owen
- Centre for Urban Transitions, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia; Physical Activity Laboratory, Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Zhenmin Huang
- Shenzhen Institute for Education and Science, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Jin Kuang
- Body-Brain-Mind Laboratory, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Arthur F Kramer
- Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA; Center for Cognitive and Brain Health, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jonathan Leo Ng
- School of Education, College of Design and Social Context, RMIT University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Liye Zou
- Body-Brain-Mind Laboratory, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
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Thorud HMS, Mudvari PR, Falkenberg HK. Academic performance and musculoskeletal pain in adolescents with uncorrected vision problems. BMC Pediatr 2024; 24:202. [PMID: 38515102 PMCID: PMC10956392 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-024-04681-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Undetected vision problems are common in school children, and a prevalence of up to 40% has previously been reported. Uncorrected vision and lack of optimal eye wear can have a significant impact on almost all aspects of everyday life, such as development and learning, academic performance, pain and discomfort, and quality of life. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between uncorrected vision problems, educational outcomes, and musculoskeletal pain symptoms. METHODS A total of 152 school children (15.1 ± 0.8 years, mean ± SD; 40% males) were included in the study. All participants were recruited from a free-of-charge school vision testing program in Kathmandu, Nepal. Academic grades were collected from the school records of the participants' nationwide final grade examinations. A questionnaire was used to record the use of digital devices, screen time, and associated symptoms, including musculoskeletal pain (Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scales). RESULTS A total of 61 children (40%) had uncorrected vision, with a cycloplegic refraction of SER - 0.53 ± 0.52 (mean ± SD). Children with uncorrected vision had significantly more third division grades (26 vs. 9%, p = 0.004) and shoulder pain in general/during screen use (66 vs. 43/40%, p = 0.008/0.003; 2.1/1.9 vs. 1.1/1.0 mean pain score, p = 0.002/0.001) compared with children with normal vision. Sex based subanalyses showed that only girls with uncorrected vision had more third division grades (25 vs. 4%, p = 0.006), and only boys with uncorrected vision had more shoulder pain in general/during screen use (76 vs. 28/31%, p < 0.001; 2.2/2.4 vs. 0.7 mean pain score, p < 0.001), compared with children with normal vision. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study showed that even small refractive errors may impact educational outcomes and musculoskeletal pain in adolescents. Most of the participating children had low myopia, easily corrected with glasses. This suggests that regular eye examinations are important in school children, and there is a need for raised awareness among parents, and school- and healthcare personnel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne-Mari Schiøtz Thorud
- National Centre for Optics, Vision and Eye Care, Department of Optometry, Radiography and Lighting Design, University of South-Eastern Norway, Kongsberg, Norway.
| | - Prabeen Raj Mudvari
- National Centre for Optics, Vision and Eye Care, Department of Optometry, Radiography and Lighting Design, University of South-Eastern Norway, Kongsberg, Norway
| | - Helle K Falkenberg
- National Centre for Optics, Vision and Eye Care, Department of Optometry, Radiography and Lighting Design, University of South-Eastern Norway, Kongsberg, Norway
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Mihalache A, Huang RS, Patil NS, Popovic MM, Mallipatna A, Kertes PJ, Muni RH, Kohly RP. Association Between Vision Difficulty and Sociodemographic Factors in Children: A Population-Based Analysis. Am J Ophthalmol 2024; 257:227-235. [PMID: 37797865 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine sociodemographic predictors of poor vision in children and adolescents less than 18 years of age in a large, nationally representative sample of the US population. DESIGN Retrospective, population-based cross-sectional study. METHODS Using data from the 2021 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), participants less than 18 years of age for whom data were available on vision difficulty were included in our analysis. Our primary outcome was vision difficulty. Sociodemographic variables were investigated as predictors of vision difficulty. Logistic regression models were performed using Stata version 17.0. An odds ratio (OR) and 95% CI were reported for analyses. RESULTS The 2021 NHIS reported on 8261 children and adolescents, of whom 7373 had data pertaining to vision difficulty and were included in our sample. Vision difficulty was associated with being unable to afford medical care (OR = 2.60, 95% CI = 1.17, 5.80, P = 0.02) and having public health insurance (OR = 1.52, 95% CI = 1.09, 2.12, P = .01). Compared to children less than 5 years of age, children ranging from 5 to 8 years (OR = 4.29, 95% CI = 2.26, 8.15, P < .01) and adolescents ranging from 16 to 17 years (OR = 6.06, 95% CI = 3.17, 11.58, P < .01) had a higher odds of vision difficulty. Compared to participants for whom the highest level of education of adults in their family was grade 1 to 11, the odds of vision difficulty were lower in those whose parents had a professional school or doctoral degree (OR = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.11, 0.84, P = .02). CONCLUSIONS Multiple sociodemographic factors are associated with vision difficulty in young persons. In working toward achieving equity in vision health, it is imperative that disparities mediated by sociodemographic factors be addressed through public health policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Mihalache
- From the Temerty Faculty of Medicine (A.M., R.S.H.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ryan S Huang
- From the Temerty Faculty of Medicine (A.M., R.S.H.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nikhil S Patil
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine (N.S.P.), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Marko M Popovic
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences (M.M.P., A.M., P.J.K., R.H.M., R.P.K.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ashwin Mallipatna
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences (M.M.P., A.M., P.J.K., R.H.M., R.P.K.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Ophthalmology (A.M.), Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Peter J Kertes
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences (M.M.P., A.M., P.J.K., R.H.M., R.P.K.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; John and Liz Tory Eye Centre (P.J.K., R.P.K.), Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rajeev H Muni
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences (M.M.P., A.M., P.J.K., R.H.M., R.P.K.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Ophthalmology (R.H.M.), St. Michael's Hospital/Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Radha P Kohly
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences (M.M.P., A.M., P.J.K., R.H.M., R.P.K.), University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; John and Liz Tory Eye Centre (P.J.K., R.P.K.), Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Pirindhavellie GP, Yong AC, Mashige KP, Naidoo KS, Chan VF. The impact of spectacle correction on the well-being of children with vision impairment due to uncorrected refractive error: a systematic review. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1575. [PMID: 37596579 PMCID: PMC10436410 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16484-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite being easily corrected with eyeglasses, over two-thirds of the world's child population presents with vision impairment (VI) due to uncorrected refractive errors. While systematic reviews have shown that VI can significantly impact children's depression and anxiety, none have reviewed the existing literature on the association between spectacle correction and well-being. This review aims to address this knowledge gap. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The main outcome measures were i) cognitive and education well-being which included mathematics and english literacy, reading fluency, school function, academic performance and grades; ii) psychological and mental health well-being which included physical anxiety, learning anxiety and mental health test scores and iii) quality of life. METHODS We searched eight databases for articles published between 1999 to 2021 that assessed the associations between spectacle correction and children's (0 to 18 years) well-being. There were no restrictions on language or geographic location. Two reviewers independently screened all publications using validated quality checklists. The findings of the review were analysed using narrative synthesis. [PROSPERO CRD42020196847]. RESULTS Of 692 records found in the databases, six randomised control trials, one cohort, one cross-sectional and one qualitative study (N = 9, 1.3%) were eligible for analysis. Data were collected from 25 522 children, 20 parents and 25 teachers across the nine studies. Seven were rated as good quality (67 to 100% of quality criteria fulfilled), and two were satisfactory (33 to 66% of quality criteria fulfilled). Spectacle correction was found to improve children's educational well-being (n = 4 very strong evidence; n = 2 strong evidence), quality of life (n = 1, very strong evidence) and decrease anxiety and increase mental health scores (n = 1, strong evidence). CONCLUSION Evidence suggests that spectacle correction improves children's cognitive and educational well-being, psychological well-being, mental health, and quality of life. More research is needed, given the paucity of published literature and the focus on only three aspects of well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ai Chee Yong
- Queens University Belfast, University Rd, Belfast, BT7 1NN, UK
| | | | - Kovin S Naidoo
- University of KwaZulu Natal, College of Health Sciences, Private Bag X54001, Durban, 4000, South Africa
| | - Ving Fai Chan
- University of KwaZulu Natal, College of Health Sciences, Private Bag X54001, Durban, 4000, South Africa.
- Queens University Belfast, University Rd, Belfast, BT7 1NN, UK.
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Harris N, Roche E, Lee P, Asper L, Wiseman N, Keel R, Duffy S, Sofija E. Vision screening outcomes of 4-5 year-olds reflect the social gradient. Clin Exp Optom 2023; 106:640-644. [PMID: 36038506 DOI: 10.1080/08164622.2022.2109947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
Abstract
CLINICAL RELEVANCE Children in socioeconomically disadvantaged communities often do not access follow-up eye care services when referred from vision screenings; whether this is due to lack of availability is not known. This paper highlights the need for vision and eye care for vulnerable children with practicing clinical optometrists well placed to provide vision care. BACKGROUND Vision impairments develop from a young age and may inhibit learning experiences and impact life outcomes. Vision screening to detect and refer vision abnormalities supports children in their education and prevents minor vision impairments from worsening. This research describes outcomes from a vision screening programme for 4- to 5-year-olds delivered in Queensland, Australia. METHODS The programme involved all prep children from participating schools in Queensland. Vision screening was conducted with the Parr 4 m Visual Acuity Test and Welch Allyn Spot Vision Screener. A cross-sectional study design was adopted. Descriptive data analyses explored the frequency of vision screening and referral outcomes. Inferential analyses examined associations between vision screening and referral outcomes with socio-economic indexes for areas (SEIFA) scores . RESULTS Of 71,003 prep students screened, 4,855 (6.8%) received a referral recommendation. A higher proportion of children who received a referral recommendation was from more disadvantaged locations (?2 = 109.16, p < 0.001). Of the students referred, 3,017 were seen by an eye health professional. Further vision assessment of students by an eye health professional revealed that 43.3% of the referred children were diagnosed with a vision abnormality, 18.9% had no vision abnormality and 37.7% had an 'undetermined' diagnosis. A higher proportion of children confirmed with a vision abnormality were from more disadvantaged locations (?2 = 52.27, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION It is important that vision screening programmes target disadvantaged populations and support families of children who require further health assessment to access health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Harris
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Elisha Roche
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Patricia Lee
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Lisa Asper
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nicola Wiseman
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
| | - Rachel Keel
- Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Services, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Shelley Duffy
- Children's Health Queensland Hospital and Health Services, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Ernesta Sofija
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia
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Masarwa D, Niazov Y, Ben Natan M, Mostovoy D. The role of parental health beliefs in seeking an eye examination for their child. BMC Ophthalmol 2023; 23:269. [PMID: 37312052 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-023-02994-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to explore the role of parental health beliefs in parent seeking of eye examinations for their children, using the Health Belief Model. METHODS In this quantitative correlational survey study, 100 parents who presented to Barzilai University Medical Center in July 2021 to perform an eye examination to their child completed a questionnaire. RESULTS Only 29.6% of the parents knew that a vision screening is performed in first grade, and 10% of the parents were unsure about where to find local eye care for their kids. Moreover, 19% of the parents indicated that they were concerned that their child would be prescribed glasses unnecessarily, and 10% believed that wearing glasses would weaken their child's eyes. Various parental health beliefs regarding children's eye examinations were found associated with parent seeking of eye examinations for their child. Thus, perceived susceptibility (r = 0.52, p < 0.01), perceived benefits (r = 0.39, p < 0.01), and perceived barriers (r=-0.31, p < 0.01) are associated with parent seeking of eye examinations for their child. Also, parents' level of knowledge was associated with seeking eye examinations for their child (r = 0.20, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Parent perceptions of the child's susceptibility to vision problems and perceived barriers to seeking eye examinations predicted parents seeking of eye examinations for their child. Interventions aimed at increasing timely eye examinations among children should focus on raising parent awareness of vision problems in childhood, dispelling misconceptions, and providing parents with practical information regarding available services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dua Masarwa
- Department of Ophthalmology, Barzilai Medical Center, Ashkelon, Israel
| | - Yulia Niazov
- Department of Ophthalmology, Barzilai Medical Center, Ashkelon, Israel
| | - Merav Ben Natan
- Pat Matthews Academic School of Nursing, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel.
| | - Dina Mostovoy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Barzilai Medical Center, Ashkelon, Israel
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Monika M, Durajczyk M. Evaluation of the Prevalence of Refractive Defects and Ocular Function in a Group of 1518 Children Aged 8 Years in Northwestern Poland-A Retrospective Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12082880. [PMID: 37109217 PMCID: PMC10143658 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12082880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the prevalence of refractive errors in a group of 8-year-old school children in northwestern Poland. MATERIAL AND METHODS In 2017-2019, refractive errors were examined in a group of 1518 Caucasian children aged 8 years old with cycloplegia. Refraction was obtained with a hand-held autorefractor (Retinomax 3). The refractive error reading was expressed as the spherical equivalent (SE) as myopia (≤-0.5 D), emmetropia (>-0.5 D to ≤+0.5 D), mild hyperopia (>+0.5 D to ≤+2.0 D) and hyperopia (>+2.0 D), and astigmatism (≤-0.75 DC) and anisometropia (≥1.00 D). Data analysis was performed using Statistica 13.5 software and included Pearson's chi-squared and Mann-Whitney U tests. p-values of <0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS Mild hyperopia was most common (37.6%), myopia was observed in 16.8% and astigmatism in 10.6% of participants. Pseudomyopia concerned up to 51.91% children. Girls were significantly more likely to have mild hyperopia (p = 0.0144) and were significantly more likely to wear glasses (p = 0.00093). CONCLUSIONS Screening children for refractive errors after cycloplegia is key for detecting accommodative spasm and refractive errors. The largest group of children presented with mild hyperopia, which is a physiological feature of refraction in 8-year-old children, but myopia and astigmatism were the most common refractive errors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Modrzejewska Monika
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin in Poland, Al. Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Magdalena Durajczyk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin in Poland, Al. Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
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Thorud HMS, Mork R, Bjørset CO, Gilson SJ, Hagen LA, Langaas T, Pedersen HR, Svarverud E, Vikesdal GH, Baraas RC. Laboured reading and musculoskeletal pain in school children - the role of lifestyle behaviour and eye wear: a cross-sectional study. BMC Pediatr 2022; 22:416. [PMID: 35831809 PMCID: PMC9278319 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-022-03465-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lifestyle behaviour in children and adolescents has become increasingly sedentary and occupied with digital work. Concurrently, there has been an increase in the prevalence of headache, neck- and low back pain, which are leading causes of disability globally. Extensive near work and use of digital devices are demanding for both the visual system and the upper body head-stabilizing musculature. Uncorrected vision problems are present in up to 40% of Nordic school children, and a lack of corrective eye wear may cause eyestrain, musculoskeletal pain and headache. The aim of this study was to investigate associations between laboured reading, musculoskeletal pain, uncorrected vision, and lifestyle behaviours in children and adolescents. Methods This was a cross-sectional study with a total of 192 Norwegian school children aged 10–11 and 15–16 years. As a part of a school vision testing program, the children completed an online questionnaire about general and ocular health, socioeconomic status, academic ambition, near work and related symptoms, upper body musculoskeletal pain, and physical and outdoor activities. Results The 15–16-year-olds had a more indoor, sedentary, digital-based lifestyle with higher academic demands, compared with the 10–11-year-olds. Concurrently, reading became more laboured and upper body musculoskeletal pain increased with age. Girls reported more symptoms, higher academic ambitions, and more time spent on schoolwork and reading, compared with boys. Non-compliance in wearing prescribed eye wear (glasses or contact lenses), increased use of near digital devices, and experiencing visual stress (glare) were positively associated with laboured reading and upper body musculoskeletal pain. Conclusions A screen-based lifestyle with high academic demands challenges the ability to sustain long hours of static, intensive near work. Extensive near work tires the visual system and upper body musculature and provokes laboured reading and musculoskeletal pain symptoms. This study emphasizes the importance of regular eye examinations in school children, and the need to raise awareness among children, parents, and school- and health personnel about the importance of optimal vision and visual environment for academic performance and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanne-Mari Schiøtz Thorud
- National Centre for Optics, Vision and Eye Care, Department of Optometry, Radiography and Lighting Design, University of South-Eastern Norway, Kongsberg, Norway.
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Chen H, Liao Y, Zhou W, Dong L, Wang W, Wang X. The change of myopic prevalence in children and adolescents before and after COVID-19 pandemic in Suqian, China. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262166. [PMID: 35312694 PMCID: PMC8937315 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate the change of myopic prevalence in students with different demographic characteristics before and after the COVID-19 pandemic in Suqian, China. Methods A retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted. Student data from 52 schools in 2019 and 2020 were collected from the electronic medical records database through cluster sampling. Ophthalmic examinations were conducted on students from September to December in 2019 and 2020. Measurements of uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) and noncycloplegic autorefraction were included to obtain the spherical equivalent refraction (SER) and prevalence of myopia. The difference in the rate of myopia and SER of students ages 6 to 18 with various demographic characteristics was compared between the two years. Results Records from 118,479 students in 2019 and the 121,881 students in 2020 were obtained. In 2019 and 2020, the prevalence of overall myopia increased from 43.1% to 48.9% (5.8 percentage point), and a substantial shift in myopic rate occurred in grades 4 to 6 (6.9 percentage point). The change in the prevalence of myopia in girls (5.9 percentage point) was approximately equal to that in boys (5.8 percentage point) and it was more common in rural students (5.9 percentage point) than in urban students (5.1 percentage point). The prevalence of low myopia increased more in children, and the prevalence of moderate myopia increased more in adolescents. The mean spherical equivalent refraction (SER) (-1.34±2.03 D) was lower in 2020 than in 2019 (-1.16±1.92 D), while SER decreased mainly at ages 7 to 15. The SER presented myopic status at the age of 9 (-0.55±1.26 D in 2019, -0.71±1.42 D in 2020), and attained moderate myopia at the age of 15 (-3.06±2.41 D in 2019, -3.22±2.40 D in 2020). Conclusions After the COVID-19 pandemic, myopia increased in this population with variable rates of increase in different demographic groups. The change of myopia in children was comparatively greater than that in adolescents. Therefore, we should take measures to prevent and control the development of myopia after the COVID-19 pandemic, especially for younger students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Xuzhou Municipal Hospital of Xuzhou Medical university, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ya Liao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Xuzhou Municipal Hospital of Xuzhou Medical university, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wen Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Xuzhou Municipal Hospital of Xuzhou Medical university, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Lei Dong
- The Primary and Middle School Health Care Center in Suqian, Suqian, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Wei Wang
- School of Public Health, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiaojuan Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Affiliated Xuzhou Municipal Hospital of Xuzhou Medical university, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China
- * E-mail:
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Danemayer J, Boggs D, Delgado Ramos V, Smith E, Kular A, Bhot W, Ramos-Barajas F, Polack S, Holloway C. Estimating need and coverage for five priority assistive products: a systematic review of global population-based research. BMJ Glob Health 2022; 7:bmjgh-2021-007662. [PMID: 35101862 PMCID: PMC8804659 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-007662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To improve access to assistive products (APs) globally, data must be available to inform evidence-based decision-making, policy development and evaluation, and market-shaping interventions. METHODS This systematic review was undertaken to identify studies presenting population-based estimates of need and coverage for five APs (hearing aids, limb prostheses, wheelchairs, glasses and personal digital assistants) grouped by four functional domains (hearing, mobility, vision and cognition). RESULTS Data including 656 AP access indicators were extracted from 207 studies, most of which (n=199, 96%) were cross-sectional, either collecting primary (n=167) or using secondary (n=32) data. There was considerable heterogeneity in assessment approaches used and how AP indicators were reported; over half (n=110) used a combination of clinical and self-reported assessment data. Of 35 studies reporting AP use out of all people with functional difficulty in the corresponding functional domains, the proportions ranged from 4.5% to 47.0% for hearing aids, from 0.9% to 17.6% for mobility devices, and from 0.1% to 86.6% for near and distance glasses. Studies reporting AP need indicators demonstrated >60% unmet need for each of the five APs in most settings. CONCLUSION Variation in definitions of indicators of AP access have likely led to overestimates/underestimates of need and coverage, particularly, where the relationship between functioning difficulty and the need for an AP is complex. This review demonstrates high unmet need for APs globally, due in part to disparate data across this sector, and emphasises the need to standardise AP data collection and reporting strategies to provide a comparable evidence base to improve access to APs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Danemayer
- Department of Computer Science, Global Disability Innovation Hub, University College London, London, UK
| | - Dorothy Boggs
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Emma Smith
- Department of Psychology, Assisted Living and Learning Institute, Maynooth University, Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Ariana Kular
- Department of Health Sciences, Mental Health and Wellbeing, University of Warwick, Warwick, UK
| | - William Bhot
- Department of Computer Science, Global Disability Innovation Hub, University College London, London, UK
| | - Felipe Ramos-Barajas
- Department of Computer Science, Global Disability Innovation Hub, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Polack
- International Centre for Evidence in Disability, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Cathy Holloway
- Department of Computer Science, Global Disability Innovation Hub, University College London, London, UK
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Current Challenges Supporting School-Aged Children with Vision Problems: A Rapid Review. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/app11209673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Many children have undetected vision problems or insufficient visual information processing that may be a factor in lower academic outcomes. The aim of this paper is to contribute to a better understanding of the importance of vision screening for school-aged children, and to investigate the possibilities of how eye-tracking (ET) technologies can support this. While there are indications that these technologies can support vision screening, a broad understanding of how to apply them and by whom, and if it is possible to utilize them at schools, is lacking. We review interdisciplinary research on performing vision investigations, and discuss current challenges for technology support. The focus is on exploring the possibilities of ET technologies to better support screening and handling of vision disorders, especially by non-vision experts. The data orginate from a literature survey of peer-reviewed journals and conference articles complemented by secondary sources, following a rapid review methodology. We highlight current trends in supportive technologies for vision screening, and identify the involved stakeholders and the research studies that discuss how to develop more supportive ET technologies for vision screening and training by non-experts.
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Abstract
Several children struggle with vision difficulties caused by problematic coordination between their left and right eye muscles, i.e., oculomotor dysfunction (OMD). Many OMDs can be improved by training the eyes via physical exercises defined and supervised by vision experts. The aim of this paper is to investigate the feasibility of utilizing Serious Games (SGs) and eye-tracking technologies (ETs) for training the eyes of children having OMD. Via these activities, a trainee can, with her eye gaze, follow objects which are moving, change their directions and speed, or pop up on the screen. The results present mapping the current physical training goals to activities for SGs using input from ETs, and illustrate this correspondence for designing and developing six games. The games’ feasibility evaluation is done via semistructured interviews and evaluating user experiences. Three vision teachers (VTs) were involved in design and development, ensuring achievement of training goals, and five VT students in evaluations. The findings demonstrate the potential of using SGs and ETs to train OMD and point to future needs for improvements.
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Bilbao C, Piñero DP. Distribution of Visual and Oculomotor Alterations in a Clinical Population of Children with and without Neurodevelopmental Disorders. Brain Sci 2021; 11:351. [PMID: 33801948 PMCID: PMC7999547 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11030351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A prospective, non-randomized comparative study was conducted to compare the distribution of oculomotor and visual alterations in children with neurodevelopmental disorders and healthy children without such disorders. Sixty-nine children (aged 6-13 years) were enrolled and divided into three groups: a control group (CG) of 23 healthy children; a group of 18 healthy children with oculomotor abnormalities (OAG); and a group of 28 children with a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDDG), with 15 cases of dyslexia, 7 cases of developmental coordination disorder (DCD) and 6 cases of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Significantly worse near stereopsis was found in NDDG compared with CG (p < 0.001) and OAG (p = 0.001). Likewise, a significantly lower amplitude of accommodation was found in NDDG compared with CG in both the right (p = 0.001) and left eyes (p < 0.001). No statistically significant differences between groups were found in the measurement of near and distance phoria (p ≥ 0.557), near point of convergence (p = 0.700) and fusional vergences (p ≥ 0.059). Significantly impaired oculomotor test scores were found in NDDG compared with CG (p < 0.001), with no significant differences between OAG and NDDG (p ≥ 0.063). The comparison between the three types of neurodevelopmental disorders included revealed the presence of a significantly lower amplitude of accommodation in children with DCD compared with dyslexics. Furthermore, less exophoria at near was present in children with dyslexia compared with children with ADHD (p = 0.018) and DCD (p = 0.054). In conclusion, children with dyslexia, ADHD and DCD show an altered oculomotor pattern and a more reduced amplitude of accommodation, not always compatible with the diagnostic criteria of an accommodative insufficiency. Accommodative and binocular vision problems are not always present in these children and cannot be considered an etiologic factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Bilbao
- Department of Optometry, Policlínica Alto Aragón, 22003 Huesca, Spain;
| | - David Pablo Piñero
- Group of Optics and Visual Perception, Department of Optics, Pharmacology and Anatomy, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain
- Department of Ophthalmology, Vithas Medimar International Hospital, 03016 Alicante, Spain
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Headache and musculoskeletal pain in school children are associated with uncorrected vision problems and need for glasses: a case-control study. Sci Rep 2021; 11:2093. [PMID: 33483534 PMCID: PMC7822909 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81497-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Musculoskeletal pain and headache are leading causes of years lived with disability, and an escalating problem in school children. Children spend increasingly more time reading and using digital screens, and increased near tasks intensify the workload on the precise coordination of the visual and head-stabilizing systems. Even minor vision problems can provoke headache and neck- and shoulder (pericranial) pain. This study investigated the association between headaches, pericranial tenderness, vision problems, and the need for glasses in children. An eye and physical examination was performed in twenty 10–15 year old children presenting to the school health nurse with headache and pericranial pain (pain group), and twenty age-and-gender matched classmates (control group). The results showed that twice as many children in the pain group had uncorrected vision and needed glasses. Most children were hyperopic, and glasses were recommended mainly for near work. Headache and pericranial tenderness were significantly correlated to reduced binocular vision, reduced distance vision, and the need for new glasses. That uncorrected vision problems are related to upper body musculoskeletal symptoms and headache, indicate that all children with these symptoms should have a full eye examination to promote health and academic performance.
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A Serial Cross-Sectional Analysis of the Prevalence, Risk Factors and Geographic Variations of Reduced Visual Acuity in Primary and Secondary Students from 2000 to 2017 in Hong Kong. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17031023. [PMID: 32041191 PMCID: PMC7036919 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17031023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: We would like to investigate the prevalence trend, potential risk factors and geographic features of reduced visual acuity (VA) in primary and secondary schoolchildren of Hong Kong. Methods: This was a serial cross-sectional study using historical data of schoolchildren aged 6 to 15 years from the annual health checks conducted at Student Health Service Centers across Hong Kong, for the school years of 2000/2001 to 2016/2017. Results: The prevalence of reduced VA increased from 49.23% (95% CI, 48.99-49.47) in 2000/2001 to 54.34% (95% CI, 54.10-54.58) in 2011/2012 but decreased to 51.42% (95% CI, 51.17-51.66) in 2016/2017. Girls were less susceptible than boys at age 6-7 (and in grade primary 1-2), but more susceptible at older ages. The prevalence in junior grades increased while the risk effect of grade reduced over the past 17 years. Geographic variation on the risk for reduced VA existed and spatial autocorrelation was positive. The difference in prevalence of reduced VA between Hong Kong and mainland China has decreased in recent years. Cross-border students living in mainland China were associated with a lower risk for reduced VA. Conclusions: Further study was proposed to investigate the environmental association between students living in and outside Hong Kong with the prevalence of reduced VA. Multi-level research should also be conducted to investigate the influence of compositional and contextual factors on the prevalence of reduced VA.
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