IMPACT OF THE OPHTHALMOLOGICAL SCREENING TEST IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS IN SOCIAL VULNERABILITY (Atena Editora)

Abstract

Vision plays a fundamental role in the child's physical and psychosocial development, which is why ophthalmological screening with early diagnosis of visual alterations is extremely important. The aim of this study is to assess the visual acuity of children in the ``Esportista Cidadão/Casa Menino`` in Park project, detect visual deficits and refer them to an ophthalmologist for an accurate assessment. The screening method used was the Snellen test, based on children and adolescents reading letters and recording the results according to the Snellen scale. Of the 61 children examined, 61 (37.9%) had some degree of visual impairment and 100 children (62.1%) had 100% visual acuity. Of the children who presented visual impairment, 35 (57.4%) were female and 26 (42.6%) were male. 8 (5%) children had very severe visual impairment; 12 children (7.4%) had severe visual impairment; 28 children (17.4%) moderate visual impairment and 13 children (8.1%) mild visual impairment. Ophthalmological screening is easy to perform and reliable, therefore, it must be part of programs in schools, institutions and government actions. Early diagnosis must allow adequate correction through efficient ophthalmologic care and provision of good quality eyeglasses.