As the summer winds down and children prepare to head back to school, August serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of eye health and safety for children. Mississippi Retina Associates joins the American Academy of Ophthalmology in celebrating Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month to highlight the significance of vision care for children.
The Importance of Eye Health in Children
Children are particularly vulnerable to a range of vision and eye problems, including injury, infection, and increased nearsightedness. Vision disorders can severely impact a child’s development and academic performance. For instance, untreated vision problems can affect a baby’s ability to bond with their caregiver, explore their environment, and develop fine and gross motor skills.
As children grow, untreated eye conditions can become more challenging to correct, potentially leading to severe issues that impact reading ability, focus, classroom behavior, and social adjustment.
Key Facts About Children’s Vision
- One in every four school-age children and one in every seventeen preschool-aged children have vision problems requiring treatment.
- 24% of teens with correctable vision have the wrong prescription, with this figure rising to about 33% for Mexican-American and African-American teens.
- 80% of all blindness and vision impairment is either preventable or treatable.
Common Vision Problems in Children
Vision problems that can affect children include:
- Amblyopia (Lazy Eye): Reduced vision in one eye, which can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated early.
- Strabismus (Crossed Eyes): Misalignment of the eyes, which can affect depth perception and lead to amblyopia.
- Refractive Errors: Including myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism, which can cause blurry vision and affect school performance.
Steps to Ensure Healthy Vision
To ensure your child has the best opportunity for a successful school year, consider the following steps:
- Regular Eye Exams: Schedule comprehensive eye exams to detect and treat vision problems early.
- Protective Eyewear: Use protective eyewear for sports and recreational activities to prevent injuries.
- Healthy Habits: Encourage breaks from screens and outdoor activities to reduce the risk of developing nearsightedness.
Mississippi Retina Associates Supports Children’s Eye Health
Mississippi Retina Associates is dedicated to educating parents and caregivers on the importance of children’s eye health. During Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, we provide valuable information and resources to help protect your child’s vision.
Healthy vision is critical to a child’s academic and social success. As you prepare for the new school year, make eye health a priority. For more information or to schedule an eye exam, contact Mississippi Retina Associates at 601.981.4091.
Ensure your child’s vision is ready for the challenges of the school year. Celebrate Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month with us and take the steps necessary for your child’s healthy vision.