Hospitalization rates of children who are blind

Abstract

Children who are born or become blind in childhood have more and longer periods in hospital than sighted children likely because of complex comorbid health problems. There was a disproportionate incidence of comorbid respiratory diseases in the blind children.

Further cause for concern in childhood vision impairment

“…'s enlightening and disturbing paper published in this month's Journal, we learn that the rate of illness‐induced separations from home in blind children, is vastly higher than the rate for sighted children. This information reminds us, as ophthalmologists, that blind children are at risk of a number of serious and even life‐threatening medical conditions . The precise aetiologies of low vision and reasons for illness are cause for particular concern because both are unexpected.…”

“…From the above, it is apparent that the ophthalmologist who cares for children with low vision must be in communication with paediatricians, paediatric specialists, psychiatrists, families and a host of professionals who provide care, training and guidance for the visually impaired. We end this commentary on a cautionary note and with a quote, from the paper by Crewe and colleagues published in this month's Journal . ‘Cooperative and complementary relations between ophthalmologists, paediatricians and support service providers are required to ensure best practice health service provision for children who are blind.’ Ophthalmologists have a unique knowledge base.…”

“…This information reminds us, as ophthalmologists, that blind children are at risk of a number of serious and even life-threatening medical conditions. 1 The precise aetiologies of low vision and reasons for illness are cause for particular concern because both are unexpected.…”

“…We end this commentary on a cautionary note and with a quote, from the paper by Crewe and colleagues published in this month's Journal. 1 'Cooperative and complementary relations between ophthalmologists, paediatricians and support service providers are required to ensure best practice health service provision for children who are blind.' Ophthalmologists have a unique…”

Ocular trauma and prevention measures

“…Beyond the direct financial cost, the consequences of ocular trauma are devastating and costly to an individual, their families and the community. Lifelong implications associated with vision loss include increased mortality, morbidity, 12,13 anxiety and depression 14 . Prevention strategies, such as policies, legislation and the introduction of eye protection have found to be effective in reducing the incidence of ocular trauma 6,7,9 .…”