Abstract

Study Design:Retrospective observational pilot study
Purpose:To assess ocular status & functional vision of children with disabilities & to identify preventable & treatable causes of visual impairment
Methods:Study was conducted at early intervention & rehabilitation centre(EIRC)for children with special needs,between July & September 2023.Ocular evaluation,functional visual assessment with cycloplegic refraction was done for all
Results:100 children visiting EIRC ophthalmology clinic were enrolled.These comprised of children with global developmental delay(41%) including cerebral palsy(25%),hearing impairment(10%),as well as with attention deficit hyperactive disorder(15%),autism(20%),Down syndrome(7%),combined mechanism(10%).Ocular disorders were seen in 90%.Common ailments were refractive errors(75%),strabismus(45%),nystagmus (20%).58 children were prescribed spectacles.7 were referred for neuroimaging
Conclusion:Early eye checkup & raising awareness will help in overall development