Dr.DEEPACHITRA D

Dr.Sahithya Bhaskaran

Abstract

Risk of visual impairment in children with multiple disabilities is high. Majority of their ocular disorders like refractive errors and strabismus are treatable. A cross-sectional study was conducted on multi-disabled children in special schools in Madurai. Out of 122 children examined, 28(23.5%) were mild myopic, 11(9.24%) moderately myopic and 8(6.72%) were high myopes. 7(5.88%) had moderate and high hypermetropia. 4(3.28%) had high astigmatism. 25(20.49%) of them had strabismus. Only 31(25%) kids requiring correction had spectacles. Delay in the detection and treatment further worsens the dependability and already existing disability in these children. Early detection and intervention can improve their social and academic activities and quality of life. Thus, the present study aimed to identify the treatable causes of visual impairment and need for implementation of a comprehensive in-school screening in special schools similar to screening conducted in regular schools.