High rate of undetected vision problems found in children with developmental delays

Children with severe developmental delays are at high risk for undetected and uncorrected vision problems, according to a study.

The study surveyed parents and used advanced refraction tools to assess the vision of 264 pediatric patients.

Researchers found that 15.5% of children had uncorrected refractive errors, with many cases either previously undetected or involving complete intolerance to glasses. Children with limited verbal communication or motor disabilities such as cerebral or tetraparesis were especially at risk. Children who had never seen an ophthalmologist were more also likely to have undiagnosed vision issues, even if they had undergone pediatric screenings.

Reference
Kabiri P, et al. Unmet need for refractive correction in children with developmental delay: a cross-sectional study. Presented at: ARVO Annual Meeting; May 2025; Seattle, WA.