Vision problems in children are a consistent public health concern. An estimated one in five preschool children have vision problems. In the United States, about one in four school-age children wear corrective lenses. Since vision problems can become worse over time, early diagnosis and treatment are essential to optimize vision for age appropriate scholastic achievement and development.

Eye and vision disorders can lead to problems in a child’s development, school performance, social interactions, and self-esteem. Vision disorders that occur in childhood can show up as problems well into adulthood, impacting an individual’s level of education, employment opportunities, and social interactions.

Early recognition of visual disorders is very important in children with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Children with disabilities are reported to have significantly more eye and vision problems (e.g., strabismus, refractive errors, and nystagmus) than children without these disabilities. The increasing severity of the disability may be related to a higher prevalence of vision problems.