
It’s January, also known as National Glaucoma Awareness Month, a focus area that hits close to home for the team at University Children's Eye Center. Our goal is to provide parents with valuable information and insights, helping them ensure proper ophthalmic care for their children. In line with this mission, we've compiled a collection of essential tips and updates that will empower you to safeguard your child's vision and guarantee that they receive the best possible care.
Understanding Childhood Cataracts: An Often Overlooked Condition
Childhood cataracts are one of the leading causes of treatable blindness in children across the United States, affecting approximately three to four infants out of every 10,000 live births. With an estimated 1,500 new cases of congenital cataracts each year, the potential for irreversible vision impairment due to lack of timely intervention is a significant concern. When left untreated, these cataracts can lead to severe complications, including deprivational amblyopia, which can drastically impact not only the child's quality of life but also their socioeconomic prospects and the well-being of their families and communities.
Timely treatment of childhood cataracts is crucial for restoring vision and enhancing a child’s future potential. While surgical intervention is often necessary, it's important to note that not all treatments require surgery. Various non-surgical options exist that yield excellent results, allowing for a comprehensive approach to managing the condition. Eye care providers typically identify cataracts through an abnormal red reflex in infants or through symptoms such as leukocoria, which can often be noticed by parents during routine activities, such as taking photographs. Early detection plays a vital role in ensuring children receive appropriate care, making routine screenings essential.
Additionally, some children may be brought in for consultation due to other symptoms, including strabismus (crossed eyes) or nystagmus (involuntary eye movement), which may indicate the presence of significant amblyopia stemming from cataracts. In many cases, family history of cataracts prompts proactive visits as parents seek reassurance about their child's eye health. By understanding the signs and being vigilant about screenings, both healthcare providers and families can work together to manage this condition effectively, ensuring that children have the best possible chance of maintaining good vision throughout their lives.
For more information, check out this recent presentation by UCEC’s own Nancy Sun, M.D., F.A.A.O. from the 25th Annual Continuing Education Seminar.

January: National Glaucoma Awareness Month
January marks National Glaucoma Awareness Month, a campaign initiated by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) to educate the public about glaucoma—a major cause of blindness and vision loss in the United States. With many people unaware of the risks and symptoms associated with this progressive eye disease, this month serves as a critical reminder for individuals of all ages to take proactive steps in safeguarding their eye health. Early detection through regular eye exams is essential, as glaucoma often progresses without noticeable symptoms until significant damage has occurred.
While commonly associated with older adults, glaucoma can affect younger populations as well. Parents and caregivers should be informed about the signs that may indicate glaucoma in children, including unusually large eyes, excessive tearing, sensitivity to light, cloudy corneas, or frequent eye rubbing. Recognizing these symptoms early can lead to timely evaluation and intervention, which are crucial for preserving vision and preventing long-term complications.
Promoting awareness and understanding of childhood glaucoma is vital. Regular eye examinations play a fundamental role in early detection, allowing for appropriate treatment and better outcomes. As we observe National Glaucoma Awareness Month, let us commit to educating ourselves and others about this often silent threat to vision. By prioritizing eye health and encouraging children to have their eyes checked regularly, we can help ensure that they grow up with not only the best possible vision, but the best quality of life.
Is Your Child a Good Candidate for Contact Lenses?
When considering contact lenses for your child, there are several important factors to evaluate to ensure they are a suitable candidate. Age is a primary consideration, as children typically need to be at least 11 years old to start wearing contact lenses. Beyond age, assessing your child's maturity and sense of responsibility is essential. Contact lenses require diligent personal hygiene practices, and your child must be capable of following these guidelines to avoid potential eye health issues.
Another crucial aspect to consider is your child's comfort level with touching their eyes. If your child feels squeamish or struggles with having objects near their eyes, they may not be ready for contact lenses. The fitting process and daily maintenance demand a level of confidence and adaptability, so it's important to gauge their readiness. By addressing these key questions about age, maturity, and comfort, you can make an informed decision about whether contact lenses are the right choice for your child.
Check out the video from UCEC’s Dr. Rose Hughes, O.D. for more info.
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