The most significant eye problems during childhood include: • Amblyopia (lazy eye), which is a reduction in vision arising from a defect present in infancy or early childhood that prevents the eye from receiving adequate visual stimulation. • Strabismus (squint), which is the incorrect alignment of the two eyes arising from injury or disease affecting [...]
The state of children’s eye health There has not been a significant amount of research carried out into the state of children’s eye health. However, research from Aston University has shown that a large proportion of children are still being left with untreated and undiagnosed sight problems – approximately 1 in 10 Year 8 children (12-13 year olds) and 1 in 20 Year 2 children (6-7 year olds) have uncorrected refractive errors and require glasses but do not have them. This research raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of screening at ages 4-5.
The evidence on the availability of the orthoptist-led screening programme for children is scant. One of the National Screening Committee’s criteria for a screening programme is that “there should be a plan for managing and monitoring the screening programme and agreed set of quality assurance standards”. The Committee notes that “in most places this is poor” and that “national standards are being considered”. We suggest the Government carries out a nationwide analysis of the provision of sight testing for children: what orthoptists, optometrists and school nurses are currently providing across the country and how effective this service actually is. Once the findings of this review have been carried out the way ahead can be planned. We maintain that the services currently being provided vary hugely across the country with many children not being tested.
If this is the case then we suggest the Government considers making it a requirement for parents to take their child for a free NHS sight test by an optometrist before entering school. Schools could require evidence of a sight test for its pupils. We would further recommend that parents are then obliged to take their child to be tested by an optometrist at regular intervals between during school years up to the age of 11. Optometrists are well qualified and would be able to provide a convenient and quality service with quick access to all children. If needed further tests or secondary treatment can be carried out by ophthalmologists. The National Screening Committee notes that “testing is not easy and results are poor except if done by a trained person – for practical purposes this means an orthoptist or optometrist”.
 Good vision is essential during the first few years of lifeGood vision is essential during the first few years of life to ensure that children have the opportunity to achieve their full visual, educational and social potential. Obstacles to vision such as squints and refractive errors (long and short-sightedness) during the early years of life can lead to amblyopia (“lazy” eye) which unless detected and [...] |
 Computer and Workstation Design and Placement for eye health sakeProper ergonomic design and adjustment of the computer and the work environment can increase productivity and worker comfort by decreasing the visual demands of the task. Overall display legibility is an important factor in visual performance. Screen brightness and contrast should be adjusted to provide balance with room lighting and maximum visibility. Lowering screen brightness [...] |