Lazy Eye Risk in Premature Children

There is generally concern regarding vision problems in premature children and especially those with retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Researchers investigated whether the incidence rate, cumulative incidence, and prevalence of any amblyopia risk factors were greater in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and non-ROP screened groups of children up to age 3. The incidence of amblyopia risk factors was not significantly different between non-ROP and ROP screened children however, the prevalence of refractive errors among premature children-especially astigmatism- was higher than that reported in childhood in the eye care literature.  Based on this, it may be appropriate to screen all children with a history of prematurity for refractive errors around 24 months of age.

If a friend, relative or acquaintance has a child born prematurely, it might be worth suggesting that they schedule a screening eye exam by age 2 if they have not already done so at the direction of their pediatrician. Please schedule an eye exam at The Eye Clinic of Texas, an affiliate of Houston Eye Associates, at 800-423-3937, visit The Eye Clinic of Texas, or facebook.com/ecot.lasik.

The Eye Clinic of Texas is an affiliate of Houston Eye Associates, the largest ophthalmology clinic in the nation. We are a leading eye care practice serving the greater Houston, Galveston, League City and Texas City with offices at 1100 Gulf Freeway, Suite 114, League City, Texas 77573, 7111 Medical Center Drive, Suite 110, Texas City, Texas 77590 and 2302 Avenue P, Galveston, Texas.