Computer Vision Syndrome: Will the Pandemic Lead to Eye Problems for Dentists?

ABSTRACT Over the past year and a half dental education has been conducted primarily online due to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. During the pandemic, we have spent many hours a day on our computers, mobile phones, and tablets to gather information and participate in online seminars and classrooms. Health consequences resulting from the overuse of these devices include carpal tunnel syndrome as well as computer vision syndrome (CVS). Computer vision syndrome, also known as digital eye strain, has several associated features such as eye burning, strained vision, dry eye, blurred vision, and associated neck and shoulder pain. Several predisposing factors have been linked with CVS, but often this problem gets ignored. The management of this syndrome is aimed at educating dentists on computer use, position, and the surrounding environment. Considering all this, we must ensure that we spend some time away from these devices every day to avoid any significant vision problems. The objective of preparing this manuscript was to provide a brief overview of the increased prevalence of computer vision syndrome and its associated features.

Prevalencia y comorbilidades de glaucoma en una institución especializada durante el año 2018 / Prevalence and comorbidities associated with glaucoma in a specialized institution during 2018

Introducción: El glaucoma constituye un problema de salud pública que genera discapacidad visual evitable, sin embargo, se desconoce su prevalencia y factores de riesgo en el Departamento del Quindío. Objetivo: Describir características y comorbilidades del glaucoma en pacientes que consultaron a oftalmología en el Quindío durante el año 2018. Diseño del estudio: Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal. Métodos: Se tomaron las historias de los pacientes que consultaron a una institución especializada del Quindío durante el 2018. Se describieron las variables en promedio, desviación estándar e intervalos de confianza y se hizo comparación por sexo. Resultados: La prevalencia de glaucoma fue del 12.68% y el 57.71% tenía antecedente de hipertensión arterial. Conclusiones: El número de pacientes que consultan por enfermedades del ojo ha venido en aumento durante los últimos tres años en un centro especializado de la ciudad de Armenia

Background: Glaucoma constitutes a public health problem that generates avoidable visual impairment, however, its prevalence and risk factors in the Department of Quindío are unknown. Objective: To describe characteristics and comorbidities of glaucoma in patients who consulted ophthalmology in Quindío during 2018. Study design: Descriptive cross-sectional study. Methods: The histories of the patients who consulted a specialized institution in Quindío during 2018 were taken. The variables were described in mean, standard deviation and confidence intervals and a comparison was made by sex. Results: The prevalence of glaucoma was 12.68% and 57.71% had a history of arterial hypertension. Conclusions: The number of patients consulting for eye diseases has been increasing over the last 3 years in a specialized center in the city of Armenia.

Vision for the Future Project: Screening impact on the prevention and treatment of visual impairments in public school children in São Paulo City, Brazil

OBJECTIVES: Uncorrected refractive errors are the leading cause of visual impairment in children. In this cross-sectional retrospective study, we analyzed a social visual screening program for school children in São Paulo, Brazil, evaluated its impact on the prevention and treatment of children's visual disabilities, and assessed its epidemiological outcomes to outline suggestions for its improvement. METHODS: First-grade children from public schools were submitted to prior visual screening by their teachers. Selected children were forwarded to the hospital's campaigns for a second screening by ophthalmologists and treatment if needed. Data were analyzed for age, sex, visual acuity, biomicroscopy, refractive errors, ocular movement disorders, amblyopia, number of donated spectacles, and number of children forwarded to specialized care. RESULTS: A total of 1080 children were included with mean age of 6.24±0.45 years. Children with normal ophthalmological exam, 591 (54.7%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 51.7%-57.7%) were dismissed and considered false-positives. Myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism components were found in 164 (15.2%; CI: 13.1%-17.4%), 190 (17.6%; CI: 15.3%-20.0%), and 330 (30.5%; CI: 27.8%-33.4%) children, respectively. Amblyopia was diagnosed in 54 (5%; CI: 3.5%-6.4%) children, and 117 (10.8%; CI: 9.8%-12.8%) presented ocular movement disorders. A total of 420 glasses were donated. CONCLUSION: Epidemiological findings for amblyopia and refractive errors are consistent with those of similar studies. The expressive number of diagnoses performed and number of glasses donated to underprivileged children depict the importance of such projects. New guidelines to improve their cost-effectiveness, such as professional training and community sensitization, are imperative.

Perfil do trauma ocupacional ocular em unidade de emergência oftalmológica / Profile of occupational eye injury in an ophthalmologic emergency department

Introdução: Trauma ocular é o motivo mais frequente de atendimentos nas emergências oftalmológicas, sendo uma das principais causas de cegueira evitável no mundo e causando grande impacto socioeconômico no sistema de saúde e na população. Objetivo: Identificar o perfil epidemiológico dos traumas oculares decorrentes de acidentes de trabalho, as sequelas visuais e o impacto socioeconômico. Métodos: Estudo transversal, retrospectivo, por meio de revisão de prontuário dos pacientes portadores de trauma ocular ocupacional atendidos em emergência oftalmológica no período de abril a agosto de 2016. Resultados: Foram incluídos no trabalho 112 pacientes, todos do sexo masculino. A faixa etária mais acometida foi de 31 a 35 anos; mecânico foi a principal profissão; corpo estranho em superfície ocular representou 85% dos traumas; 72% dos pacientes levaram mais de 12 horas para procurar atendimento médico especializado; e 86% tiveram o primeiro atendimento na empresa. Metade dos pacientes usava equipamento de proteção. A acuidade final pós-trauma, na maioria dos pacientes, não sofreu impacto. Conclusão: Apesar de a maioria dos pacientes não ter apresentado sequelas visuais, o trauma ocular ocupacional levou à perda de dias de trabalho e a gastos com medicações. Estudos como este servem para mapear a problemática e traçar estratégias preventivas.

Background: Eye injury is the most frequent reason for visits to ophthalmological emergency departments, being one of the leading causes of avoidable blindness worldwide, with considerable socioeconomic impact on health systems and populations. Objective: To establish the epidemiologic profile of eye injury caused by work accidents, visual sequelae and socioeconomic impact. Methods: A retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted by reviewing the medical records of patients with occupational eye injury treated at an ophthalmologic emergency department from April to August 2016. Results: A total of 112 patients were included, all of them male. The most affected age group was 31 to 35 years old, and the main professional category the one of mechanics; foreign bodies on the eye surface represented 85% of injuries; 72% of patients sought specialized treatment more than 12 hours after the accident; and for 86% this was their first treatment at the company. Half of the patients used personal protection equipment. In most cases the final visual acuity after injury was not impaired. Conclusion: Although most patients did not remain with visual sequelae, occupational eye injury resulted in loss of working days and expenses with medication. Studies such as the present one contribute to the mapping of the investigated problem and the formulation of preventive strategies.

La prevención de la discapacidad visual por retinopatía diabética: un reto para todos / Prevalence of visual disability caused by diabetic retinopathy, a challenge to all

La diabetes es una de las mayores emergencias mundiales de salud, por lo que las complicaciones asociadas a estas requieren una atención especial. La retinopatía diabética constituye una de estas atenciones y la discapacidad visual por esta causa se convierte en un reto para todos. Se analizaron las principales barreras para el diagnóstico precoz y el tratamiento oportuno de la retinopatía. Además, realizamos consideraciones sobre el método de tamizaje de la retinopatía diabética en Cuba y el valor de la educación de los pacientes, familiares y de todos en general para combatir esta epidemia que crece y está fuera de control. Se desarrollaron programas de educación, detección y tratamiento de la retinopatía diabética para así prevenir la discapacidad visual por esta causa(AU)

The diabetes is one of the largest health emergencies worldwide since their associated complications require special attention. The diabetic retinopathy is one of these focuses of attention and the diabetes-related visual impairment becomes a challenge for all. We analyzed the main barriers to early diagnosis and timely treatment of the retinopathy. Additionally, we also made considerations on the screening method of the diabetic retinopathy in Cuba and the value of education of patients, family and of all individuals in general to fight this epidemic that grows and is out of control. Education, detection and treatment programs for diabetic retinopathy to prevent the visual impairment from this cause were developed(AU)

Detecção precoce e resolução de deficiência visual em escolares da cidade de Patos de Minas / Early detection and resolution of visual impairment in students from the city of Patos de Minas

Introdução: a integridade da visão é indispensável para o desempenho escolar. Cerca de 7,5 milhões de crianças são portadoras de alguma deficiência visual e apenas 25% delas apresentam sintomas. Diante disso, ações de promoção de saúde assumem importância decisiva, o que justifica a realização deste projeto. Metodologia: o projeto realizou atriagem oftalmológica de 182 crianças, por meio do teste de Snellen, na Escola Estadual Ilídio Caixeta, em Patos de Minas, de acordo com os padrões exigidos pela OMS. Foram encaminhados para o serviço de Oftalmologia aqueles que possuíam acuidade visual ? 0,7.Diante da ausência de oftalmologistas na rede pública em Patos de Minas, três aceitaram participar voluntariamente, atendendo em seus consultórios sem cobrar honorários. Quando houve necessidade de aquisição de óculos, estes foram oferecidos por meio da parceriacom a entidade Rotary Guaratinga. Resultados e discussão: das 182 crianças avaliadas 20,87% tinham baixa acuidade visual. Percebeu-se também que 78,94% das crianças nunca realizaram consultas oftalmológicas anteriores, comprovando de fato o acesso restritoa poucos. Posteriormente às consultas, os resultados mostraram que 60% necessitaram de óculos. Conclusão: o reconhecimento do projeto fora tão marcante que a análise da acuidade visual de escolares de Patos de Minas foi inserida na grade curricular do 2° período do curso de Medicina do UNIPAM. Portanto, a prevenção e a detecção precoce dedeficiências visuais são os melhores recursos para combate à visão subnormal e devem ser feitas, preferencialmente, na infância, podendo ser corrigidas com terapêutica adequada.

Introduction: Vision integrity is essential for school performance. About 7.5 million children are visually impaired and only 25% of them present symptoms. Therefore, actions for health promotion take decisive importance, which justifies the realization of this project. Methodology:The project held ophthalmic screening of 182 children through the Snellen chart, on the School Escola Estadual Ilídio Caixeta in Patos de Minas, according to the standards required by WHO. Those presenting visual acuity ? 0.7 were referred to ophthalmologic service. Due to the absence of ophthalmologists working for public health system in Patos de Minas, three ophthalmologists agreed to participate voluntarily, attending medical consults without charging fees. When there was need to purchase glasses, they were offered by a partnership with the Rotary entity Guaratinga. Results and Discussion: Of the 182 children evaluated, 20.87% had low visual acuity. We also noticed that 78.94% of children never made previous ophthalmologic consultations, proving in fact the access is restricted to few. After the consultations, results showed that 60% needed glasses. Conclusion: The recognition of the project was so great that the analysis of visual acuity school Patos de Minas was included in the curriculum of 2nd period of the medical course of UNIPAM. Therefore, prevention and early detection of visual impairment are the best resourcesfor combating low vision and must be made, preferably, in childhood and can be corrected by appropriate treatment.

Encuestas nacionales de ceguera y deficiencia visual evitables en Argentina, El Salvador, Honduras, Panamá, Perú y Uruguay / National surveys of avoidable blindness and visual impairment in Argentina, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, Peru, and Uruguay

OBJETIVO: Describir la justificación y metodología usadas en la Evaluación Rápida de Ceguera Evitable empleada para efectuar encuestas a nivel nacional entre 2011 y 2013 en Argentina, El Salvador, Honduras, Panamá, Perú y Uruguay. MÉTODOS: La encuesta se dirige a personas de 50 años o más, lo que reduce al mínimo los requisitos de tamaño de la muestra, que oscila entre 2 000 y 5 000 personas. Se emplean sistemas simples de muestreo y técnicas de examen; el análisis de datos es automático y no requiere de un experto en estadística. Es relativamente económica, ya que no toma mucho tiempo, no requiere equipos oftalmológicos costosos y puede ser llevada a cabo por el personal local. Los informes son generados mediante el propio programa informático de la evaluación. RESULTADOS: Los indicadores generados son la prevalencia de la ceguera y la deficiencia visual severa y moderada (discriminadas por causas evitables y cataratas); la prevalencia de afaquia o pseudofaquia; la cobertura de la cirugía de cataratas; el resultado visual de las cirugías de cataratas; las causas de resultados malos; las barreras de acceso a la cirugía de cataratas; y los indicadores de servicio de la cirugía de cataratas. Los resultados de cada una de las encuestas serán publicados de manera secuencial en números sucesivos de la revista, y en un artículo final de resumen se hará un análisis de los resultados en su conjunto y comparativo entre las encuestas y con aquellas publicadas anteriormente, que aportará un estado de la situación actual en ese grupo de países. CONCLUSIONES: La Evaluación Rápida de Ceguera Evitable es una metodología sólida, sencilla y económica para determinar la prevalencia de ceguera y deficiencia visual y la cobertura y calidad de los servicios de salud ocular, y representa una herramienta muy valiosa para medir el progreso de los programas de prevención de la ceguera y su impacto en la población.

OBJECTIVE: Describe the rationale and methodology of the Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness applied in surveys at the national level in 2011-2013 in Argentina, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, Peru, and Uruguay. METHODS: The survey includes individuals aged 50 years and older, minimizing required sample sizes, which vary from 2 000 to 5 000 people. It uses straightforward sampling and examination techniques, and data analysis is automatic and does not require a statistician. It is relatively inexpensive, as it does not take a long time, does not require expensive ophthalmic equipment, and can be carried out by local staff. Reports are generated by the assessment software package. RESULTS: Indicators measured are prevalence of blindness and of moderate and severe visual impairment (broken down into avoidable causes and cataracts); prevalence of aphakia or pseudophakia; cataract surgical coverage; visual outcome of cataract surgeries; causes of poor outcomes; access barriers to cataract surgery; and cataract surgery service indicators. Results of each survey will be published sequentially in successive issues of the Journal, and a final summary article will analyze results as a whole and in comparison with the other surveys in this group and with those previously published, which will provide a current picture of the situation in this group of countries. CONCLUSIONS: The Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness is a robust, simple, and inexpensive methodology to determine prevalence of blindness and visual impairment as well as eye health service coverage and quality. It is a very valuable tool for measuring progress by blindness prevention programs and their impact on the population.

Rapid assessment of avoidable blindness in Uruguay: results of a nationwide survey / Evaluación rápida de la ceguera evitable en Uruguay: resultados de un estudio a escala nacional

OBJECTIVE: To investigate and describe the prevalence and causes of blindness and moderate and severe visual impairment in older adults living in Uruguay. METHODS: All individuals aged ≥ 50 years old living in randomly selected clusters were eligible to participate. In each census enumeration unit selected, 50 residents aged 50 years and older were chosen to participate in the study using compact segment sampling. The study participants underwent visual acuity (VA) measurement and lens examination; those with presenting VA (PVA) < 20/60 also underwent direct ophthalmoscopy. Moderate visual impairment (MVI) was defined as PVA < 20/60-20/200, severe visual impairment (SVI) was defined as PVA < 20/200-20/400, and blindness was defined as PVA < 20/400, all based on vision in the better eye with available correction. RESULTS: Out of 3 956 eligible individuals, 3 729 (94.3%) were examined. The age- and sex-adjusted prevalence of blindness was 0.9% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.5-1.3). Cataract (48.6%) and glaucoma (14.3%) were the main causes of blindness. Prevalence of SVI and MVI was 0.9% (95% CI: 0.5-1.3) and 7.9% (95% CI: 6.0-9.7) respectively. Cataract was the main cause of SVI (65.7%), followed by uncorrected refractive error (14.3%), which was the main cause of MVI (55.2%). Cataract surgical coverage was 76.8% (calculated by eye) and 91.3% (calculated by individual). Of all eyes operated for cataract, 70.0% could see ≥ 20/60 and 15.3% could not see 20/200 post-surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Prevalence of blindness in Uruguay is low compared to other Latin American countries, but further reduction is feasible. Due to Uruguay's high cataract surgical coverage and growing proportion of people ≥ 50 years old, the impact of posterior pole diseases as a contributing factor to blindness might increase in future.

OBJETIVO: Investigar y describir la prevalencia y las causas de la ceguera y de la discapacidad visual moderada y grave en los adultos mayores residentes en Uruguay. MÉTODOS: Todas las personas de 50 años o más que vivían en los agrupamientos seleccionados aleatoriamente reunían los requisitos para participar. En cada unidad de enumeración censal seleccionada, se escogieron 50 residentes de = 50 años de edad para participar en el estudio mediante el empleo de un muestreo por segmentos compactos. Los participantes fueron sometidos a una medición de la agudeza visual (AV) y a un examen del cristalino; los que mostraban una AV de presentación (AVP) < 20/60 también fueron sometidos a oftalmoscopia directa. La discapacidad visual moderada (DVM) se definió como una AVP < 20/60–20/200, la discapacidad visual grave (DVG) como una AVP < 20/200–20/400, y la ceguera como una AVP< 20/400, todas ellas basadas en la visión del ojo que obtuvo un mejor resultado con la corrección disponible. RESULTADOS: De las 3 956 personas que reunieron los requisitos, se examinaron 3 729 (94,3%). La prevalencia ajustada por edad y sexo de la ceguera fue de 0,9% (intervalo de confianza (IC) de 95%: 0,5–1,3). La catarata (48,6%) y el glaucoma (14,3%) fueron las principales causas de ceguera. La prevalencia de la DVG y la DVM fue de 0,9% (IC de 95%: 0,5–1,3) y 7,9% (IC de 95%: 6,0–9,7), respectivamente. La catarata fue la causa principal de DVG (65,7%), seguida del error de refracción no corregido (14,3%), que fue la principal causa de DVM (55,2%). La cobertura quirúrgica de la catarata fue de 76,8% (calculada por ojo) y de 91,3% (calculada por persona). De todos los ojos operados de catarata, 70,0% presentaba una agudeza visual de = 20/60 y 15,3% tenía una agudeza visual < 20/200 después de la intervención quirúrgica. CONCLUSIONES: En Uruguay, la prevalencia de la ceguera es baja en comparación con otros países latinoamericanos, pero es factible lograr una reducción adicional. Como consecuencia de la alta cobertura quirúrgica de la catarata y la creciente proporción de personas de = 50 años en Uruguay, la repercusión de las enfermedades de la cámara ocular posterior como factor contribuyente a la ceguera podría aumentar en el futuro.

Déficit visual y nivel de educación / Visual deficit and level of education

En este trabajo de tesis se pretendió investigar si existe una relación entre el nivel educativo de la población en estudio y el déficit visual de la misma. Dicha investigación descriptiva se realizó en un Centro Municipal de 2º Nivel de Atención situado en el Barrio Alta Córdoba de la Ciudad de Córdoba, entre los meses de enero y agosto de 2011. Para ello se tomó una muestra aleatoria y al azar de los pacientes que concurrieron al Servicio de Oftalmología, dentro de un grupo etáreo de entre 30 y 80 años de ambos sexos. Se les practicó una anamnesis donde se interrogó sobre motivo de consulta, antecedentes patológicos y oftalmológicos positivos, nivel educativo alcanzado, si poseía trabajo formal y obra social, y área de vivienda. Después se prosiguió con un examen oftalmológico completo determinando si había déficit visual, ya sea uni o bilateral, y el diagnóstico o causa de dicha dolencia. Todo ello fue registrado en fichas médicas. Se intentó demostrar que a menor nivel educativo fue mayor el déficit visual encontrado.En la muestra tomada de 205 pacientes el 65% posee nivel educativo bajo. La prevalencia del déficit visual es del 25 % (17% unilateral, 8% bilateral). El 88 % de los pacientes con déficit visual bilateral posee nivel educativo bajo y ocurre la misma situación con el 58 % de los pacientes con déficit visual unilateral. La mayoría de los pacientes con Déficit Visual tanto unilateral como bilateral no poseen obra social (83% y 87% respectivamente), y el 44 % de éstos no pertenece al mercado laboral. El diagnóstico más frecuente fueron las ametropías (66% de los casos). Así el autor demuestra que el nivel educativo alcanzado, la cobertura médica y el empleo formal son determinantes para una adecuada salud visual.

SUMMARY: In this thesis work was intended to investigate whether there is arelationship between the educational level of the study population and the same visual deficit. This descriptive study was performed in a Municipal Center 2nd Level of Care located in the Alta Córdoba neighborhood Córdoba City, between January and August 2011. This is a random sample and random patients who attended the Department of Ophthalmology, within an age group between 18 and 80 years of both sexes. They underwent anamnesis where queried complaint, medical history and positive eye, educational attainment, if possessed formal work and social work, and living area. Then he continued with a complete eye examination by determining whether visual deficits had either unilateral or bilateral, and the diagnosis or cause of the ailment. All this was recorded in medical records. We attempted to show that lower education was greater visual deficits found. In the sample taken from 205 patients, 65% have low education. The prevalence of visual impairment is 25% (17% unilateral, bilateral 8%). 88% of patients with bilateral visual deficit has low educational level and the same situation occurs with 58% of patients with unilateral visual deficits. Most patients Visually Impaired either unilateral or bilateral not have healthcoverage (83% and 87% respectively), and 44% of those not in the labor market. The most frequen t diagnosis was ametropy (66% of cases). So the author shows that educational attainment, health coverage and formal employment are crucial for proper eye health.

Computer use and vision-related problems amongst students in Ajman, UAE

The extensive use of computers as medium of teaching and learning in Universities necessitates introspection into the extent of computer-related health disorders amongst the student population. There are no documented studies done in this regard in Ajman. This study was undertaken to assess the pattern of computer usage and related visual problems, among University students in Ajman, UAE. A total of 500 Students studying in Gulf Medical University, Ajman and Ajman University of Science and Technology were approached for the study. A pretested and content-validated self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Demographic characteristics, pattern of usage of computers and associated visual symptoms were recorded in the questionnaire. 471 questionnaires were returned and analyzed. Chi-square test was used to determine the association between the variables. The crude Odds Ratio [OR] was determined using simple binary logistic regression and adjusted OR was calculated using multiple logistic regressions. The most common vision-related problems reported among computer users were headache, burning sensation in the eyes and dry/tired/sore eyes, with 53.3%, 54.8% and 48% of students reporting the same respectively. Female students were found to be at a higher risk. A significantly higher proportion of respondents [60%] employing a viewing distance of less than 50 cm complained of headache. The incidence of headache [51.7%], dry eyes [34.5%] and burning sensation [44.8] was lower when screen filters were used. Sustained periods of close screen work without screen filters were found to be associated with occurrence of the symptoms and decreased productivity of the students. More attention needs to be given in an attempt to reduce the impact of computer-related vision problems and the interruptions in work

Profile of School Going Children with Visual Impairment.

Eye is the most vital organ of human body; apart from serving the function of vision, it enables us to do our tasks with coordination. Any abnormality in the eye can impair vision and make the person handicapped for life. WHO estimates that 153 million people worldwide live with visual impairment due to uncorrected refractive errors, 8 million are blind and 12.8 million are in age group of 5-15 years1. In India prevalence of defective vision in age group of 6-15 years is around 13 %2,3. The school children form a special group because they are most vulnerable to the effects of reduced vision and its impact on learning capability and educational potential. In addition, the management of refractive errors is perhaps the simplest and the most effective eye care that can be provided by involving the community4. The school children are more prone to develop decreased visual acuity owing to increased near work due to stressful academic schedule, nutritional deficiencies and excessive viewing of television, playing videogames. Poor vision in childhood affects academic performance in school and has a negative influence on future of child. Considering these issues the present study was carried out to find out the factors affecting vision of school children and to suggest preventive and remedial measures for defective vision.

Presentation of amblyopia at a tertiary care hospital in Karachi

To study the type and density of amblyopia in children visiting pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus unit in the department of ophthalmology at Civil Hospital Karachi. This prospective study was conducted in pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus unit of department of ophthalmology Civil Hospital Karachi, from June 2009 to May 2010. All children under 15 years of age diagnosed with different types of amblyopia underwent standard procedure of orthoptic assessment and were divided into four pediatric age groups. Statistical analysis by simple descriptive analysis was carried out. During the study period, 239 patients were diagnosed with different types of amblyopia including 128 [53.55%] cases with refractive amblyopia, 58 [24.26%] cases with strabismic amblyopia and 53 [22.17%] cases with deprivation amblyopia. Severe amblyopia was seen in 59 [24.68%] cases with refractive errors, 25 [10.46%] cases with strabismus while all 53 [22.17%] cases with deprivation amblyopia had severe density of amblyopia. Amblyopia is a common cause of visual impairment in pediatric age group. Refractive amblyopia is the most frequent type while children with stimulus deprivation have higher chances of having severe density amblyopia. Children with amblyopia should be diagnosed at an early age for successful treatment. An effective screening program for early diagnosis and prompt treatment is recommended to prevent our future generation from visual impairment

Detecção e prevenção das deficiências visuais na infância e sua relação com a educação / Detection and prevention of visual deficiency in childhood and its relationship with education

É um trabalho que trata do Censo Visual realizado em escolares da rede pública, relacionando com a dislexia e distúrbios de aprendizagem e comportamento, baseado em pesquisa efetuada no CEAE (Centro de Atendimento ao Educando) da Secretaria de Educação e Cultura do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul e em revisão bibliográfica. Relaciona-se com a educação e a psicologia. Analisa a importância do Censo Visual nas escolas para a prevenção dos distúrbios de aprendizagem e na prevenção da cegueira

This work deals with the Visual Census conducted among public school students. Focused on dyslexia and learning disorders and behavior, the article is based on the research performed in the CEAE (Student Support Center) of the Department of Education and Culture of Rio Grande do Sul and on a literature review. It is related to education and psychology and emphasizes the importance of the Visual Census in schools for the prevention of learning disabilities and blindness

Causes of visual loss and their risk factors: an incidence summary from the Barbados Eye Studies / Causas de la pérdida visual y sus factores de riesgo: resumen de la incidencia a partir de los Estudios de Oftalmología de Barbados

Objectives: To summarize incidence and risk factors for each main cause of visual loss in an African-Caribbean population and discuss the implications of these data from a public health perspective. Methods: A nationally representative cohort (n = 4 709; ages 40-84 years at baseline) had ophthalmic and other examinations over 9 years. Incidence rates were estimated by the product-limit approach. Risk factors were evaluated from Cox regression models. Results: Average incidence was ~ 0.1 percent per year for blindness (< 6/120) and 0.7 percent per year for low vision (< 6/18 to 6/120), increasing steeply with age (P < 0.05) and affecting related quality of life (P < 0.05). Age-related cataract and open-angle glaucoma (OAG) accounted for 73.2 percent of blindness and diabetic retinopathy (DR) for 8.9 percent; cataract caused two-thirds of low vision. Average incidence was 5.1 percent per year for all lens changes (gradable/ungradable opacities or aphakia) and 0.4 percent per year for cataract surgery. Incidence of definite OAG was 0.5 percent per year (0.9 percent for suspect or probable); 53 percent of the affected were unaware. Persons with diabetes mellitus (DM) had a DR incidence of 4.4 percent per year. Age-related macular degeneration was rare (0.08 percent per year). Main cataract risk factors were age and DM. OAG incidence increased with age, intraocular pressure, family history, low ocular perfusion pressures, and thinner corneas. DR risk increased with early DM onset, DM duration, oral/insulin treatment, increased systolic and diastolic blood pressures, and hyperglycemia. Antihypertensive treatment halved DR risk. Conclusions: Incidence of visual impairment was high and significantly affected quality of life. Age-related cataract and OAG caused ~ 75 percent of blindness, indicating the need for public health action to increase appropriate cataract surgery and early OAG detection and treatment. Controlling DM and hypertension would help prevent...

Objetivo: Presentar un resumen de la incidencia y los factores de riesgo de cada causa principal de pérdida de la visión en una población afrocaribeña y examinar las implicaciones de estos datos desde una perspectiva de salud pública. Métodos: En una cohorte representativa al nivel nacional (n = 4 709; edades de 40 a 84 años al inicio) se hicieron exploraciones oftálmicas y de otros tipos durante nueve años. Se calcularon las tasas de incidencia mediante el método del producto-límite. Los factores de riesgo se evaluaron mediante modelos de regresión de Cox. Resultados: La incidencia promedio fue ~ 0,1 por ciento al año para la ceguera (< 6/120) y de 0,7 por ciento al año para la visión deficiente (< 6/18 a 6/120), que aumentó de manera pronunciada con la edad (P < 0,05) y afectó a la calidad de vida relacionada (P < 0,05). Las cataratas y el glaucoma de ángulo abierto relacionados con la edad representaron 73,2 por ciento de los casos de ceguera, y 8,9 por ciento de los casos de retinopatía diabética; las cataratas causaron dos tercios de los casos de visión deficiente. La incidencia media fue de 5,1 por ciento al año en todos los cambios del cristalino (opacidades graduables o no graduables o afaquia), y de 0,4 por ciento al año en la cirugía de cataratas. La incidencia del glaucoma de ángulo abierto definitivo fue de 0,5 por ciento al año (0,9 por ciento en el caso de la sospecha o la probabilidad); 53 por ciento de los pacientes afectados no era conciente. Las personas que padecían diabetes tenían una incidencia de retinopatía diabética de 4,4 por ciento al año. La degeneración macular relacionada con la edad fue muy infrecuente (0,08 por ciento al año). Los principales factores de riesgo de las cataratas fueron la edad y la diabetes. La incidencia de glaucoma de ángulo abierto aumentó con la edad, la presión intraocular, los antecedentes familiares, las presiones bajas de perfusión ocular y el grosor más fino de la córnea. El riesgo de retinopatía...

Quedas relacionadas a distúrbios visuais na população idosa / Falls related visual disorders in aged population

Objetivo: Informar os profissionais de saúde sobre o papel da visão na estabilidade postural do idoso e as principais alterações visuais que acometem este específico, alertando-os para a importância da detecção precoce e do tratamento destes agravos na prevenção das quedas. Método: Estudo da revisão em sites médicos, no qual foram incluídos 14 artigos originais e seis artigos de revisão, versando sobre a relação entre distúrbios visuais e quedas em idosos. Resultados: Todos os artigos selecionados relataram a importância do sistema visual na manutenção da estabilidade postural e na prevenção das quedas em idosos. A capacidade visual dos gerontes está associada à sua independência funcional, autonomia e qualidade de vida. Conclusão: A função visual tem importante participação na manutenção do equilíbrio corporal dos idosos, sendo que a detecção precoce das alterações visuais tratáveis e a adaptação dos ambientes às dificuldades dos idosos contribuem para a prevenção das quedas.

Assessment of visual health campaign activities at schools: teachers' perception

PURPOSE: 1) To assess the opinion of teachers involved in visual screening of school-age children and their referral to ophthalmologic examination within the "Eye-to-Eye National Campaign for Visual Disorders Prevention and Rehabilitation" (Campanha Nacional de Prevenção e Reabilitação Visual Olho no Olho); 2) To identify the teachers' perception with respect to the training received for conducting the campaign. METHODS: A descriptive study has been conducted, based on data recorded from the application of a questionnaire to 1,517 elementary school teachers working in public schools in 27 Brazilian states. The following items were examined: received orientation, use of educational videos and handbooks, supplied explanations, difficulties, questions and overall campaign assessment. RESULTS: 82.0 percent of the teachers stated they had received orientation and 92.0 percent stated they had read the "Teacher Orientation Manual". Among those who received orientation, 47.0 percent stated it had been supplied by school officials; 30.0 percent, by healthcare agents, and 23.0 percent by ophthalmologists. In the self-assessment of performance, 58.0 percent reported no difficulties; 32.0 percent reported questions concerning the campaign activities and the professionals who most frequently asked to provide clarification were those from the State Education Agency (38.0 percent), followed by the school director (20.0 percent). CONCLUSIONS: Most teachers considered themselves adequately trained and oriented to take part in the campaign. Teachers' training was provided by administrative officials, previously trained by ophthalmologists ("multiplying effect") and the small percentage of questions raised indicated the validity of the procedure. Concerns have been raised as to the information about the ophthalmologic examination, transportation of the children and delivery of glasses. This kind of program always presents some difficulties and requires...

OBJETIVOS: 1) Verificar opiniões de professores envolvidos na triagem visual e encaminhamento para exame oftalmológico de escolares na "Campanha Nacional de Prevenção e Reabilitação Visual Olho no Olho". 2) Identificar a percepção dos professores em relação ao treinamento fornecido para execução da campanha. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se estudo descritivo de dados registrados provenientes da aplicação de questionário a 1.517 professores da primeira série do Ensino Fundamental do sistema público de ensino de 27 Estados brasileiros. Foram investigados: recebimento de orientações, uso de manuais e vídeos ilustrativos, orientações fornecidas, dificuldades, dúvidas e avaliação geral da campanha. RESULTADOS: 82,0 por cento dos educadores declararam ter recebido orientações e 92,0 por cento terem lido o "Manual de Orientação ao Professor". Dos que receberam orientações, 47,0 por cento declararam que foram ministradas por funcionários da escola; 30,0 por cento por profissionais do serviço de Saúde e 23,0 por cento por oftalmologistas. Na auto-avaliação de desempenho, 58,0 por cento não apontaram dificuldades. 32,0 por cento relataram dúvidas em relação às atividades da campanha e o profissional mais procurado para solucioná-las foi o profissional da Secretaria da Educação (38,0 por cento), seguido do diretor da escola (20,0 por cento). CONCLUSÕES: A maioria dos professores considerou-se bem orientado e treinado para participar da campanha. O treinamento aos professores foi fornecido por profissionais administrativos após orientação de oftalmologistas ("efeito multiplicador") e o pequeno percentual com dúvidas indica sua validade. Foram relatadas preocupações com o aviso para realização do exame oftalmológico, o transporte dos escolares e a entrega dos óculos.

Método computadorizado para medida da acuidade visual / A computerized method for visual acuity assessment

OBJETIVO: Elaborar e validar teste computadorizado para medida da acuidade visual de escolares. MÉTODOS: Foi elaborado teste computadorizado para determinação da acuidade visual utilizando os padrões das tabelas logarítmicas impressas adotadas na clínica oftalmológica. Foram avaliados 90 alunos da primeira série do ensino básico, oito estudantes do curso de Tecnologia Oftálmica da UNIFESP-EPM e 10 pacientes do ambulatório de Estrabismo do Departamento de Oftalmologia da UNIFESP-EPM. Todos os sujeitos foram avaliados pelo mesmo examinador e submetidos ao exame de acuidade visual monocular, pela tabela logarítmica de optotipos E impressa e do novo teste computadorizado no mesmo momento. Os participantes forneceram os seus consentimentos após esclarecimento. RESULTADOS: As análises estatísticas revelaram correlação excelente (r>0,75) entre os dois métodos, apesar da leve tendência apresentada pelo teste computadorizado em superestimar a acuidade visual quando comparado com o padrão-ouro. O teste computadorizado apresentou sensibilidade de 100 por cento e especificidade de 94 por cento. CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados obtidos nos permitem dizer que o teste computadorizado pode ser utilizado como novo recurso para triagem da qualidade visual dos escolares, por ser método rápido, de fácil aplicação, barato, automático e atrativo para as crianças. A automatização desvincula o aplicador da interpretação das respostas dadas pelo aluno testado, garante padronização do procedimento, que favorece as análises de acompanhamento e pode ser realizado por diferentes examinadores. Para melhor compreensão da efetividade do teste como instrumento de triagem visual, seria interessante instituí-lo nas escolas do curso básico, após treinamento dos professores para sua aplicação.

PURPOSE: To elaborate and to validate a computerized test for visual acuity screening of school-age children. METHODS: We have created a computerized test for visual acuity assessment with optotypes arranged as those of printed logarithmic charts used in ophthalmic clinic. Ninety seven-year-old students, 8 normal adult volunteers and 10 patients from the Strabismus sector of the Federal University of São Paulo were evaluated by the same examiner and submitted to the visual acuity test through printed visual acuity logarithmic tumble "E" chart and the new computerized test at the same time. Written consent was obtained after clarification about the research project. RESULTS: Statistical analysis showed excellent correlation between the two methods (r>0.75) besides the slight trend of the computerized test to overestimate visual acuity when compared with the gold standard. Sensitivity of the computerized test was 100 percent (correctly identified 6 eyes with poor visual acuity) and specificity was 94 percent. CONCLUSION: The computerized test can be used as a new clinical tool for visual acuity screening of school-age children and it is fast, easy to perform and inexpensive, besides being more attractive for children. The method releases the examiner from the interpretation of the subject's answers and ensures the procedure's standardization even when more than one examiner performs the test. To better understand the effectiveness of this method for visual screening, one option would be to introduce it in elementary schools, after training the teachers to perform this test.

Conhecimento dos educadores infantis sobre os problemas visuais e auditivos em crianças da creche / The children teachers`knowledge about visual and hearing problems in the day-care center children

Objetivou-se averiguar o conhecimjento das educadoras infantis sobre problemas visuais e auditivos na primeira infância. Estudo do tipo descritivo, no qual educadoras de uma creche foram entrevistadas sobre alterações visuais e auditivas, localizadas em Fortaleza-CE. Observamos que 04 educadoras souberam identificar quando a criança está com problema visual e todas identificaram quando a mesma está com problema auditivo. As principais atitudes mencionadas para a resolução dos problemas foram: levar ao posto de saúde e comunicar à família. Logo, consideramos necessário que as educadoras recnheçam a creche como um espaço de vida e de saúde.