Visual impairment (VI) in childhood has lifelong implications for both the child and their family. Indeed, it affects the child's development, education, and the care given by families and professionals. It also shapes the adult the child will become, affecting employment and social prospects. Although less common than VI in adulthood, the number of 'blind years' experienced by these children in their lifetime is of particular significance. There are no consistent national estimates on the prevalence of childhood VI, as the methods to record prevalence vary between surveys. Using the most recent registration data from 2006, there were approximately 3825 children (0–17 years) registered severely sight impaired and 4800 children registered sight impaired. To see more details, visit www.medscape.com
Article written Rasmeet K Chadha; Ahalya Subramanian
