Amblyopia and Strabismus in young Singaporean children

Abstract

The prevalence of amblyopia in Singaporean children aged 30-72 months was 1.19% (95% CI 0.73-1.83) with refractive (85%) amblyopia being more common. The prevalence of strabismus in children aged 6-72 months was 0.80% (95%CI 0.51-1.19) with an exotropia:esotropia ratio of 7:1. Amblyopia was associated with refractive errors and strabismus, while strabismus was also associated with lower paternal education, and a family history of strabismus. Stereoacuity was poorer in children with amblyopia and strabismus but good stereoacuity (40-60sec) was also present in 23.1% in each group. Although there was no difference in quality-of-life measured using the generic Pediatric Quality of Life inventory, in a Childhood Development Survey, children with strabismus were more likely to have speech and comprehension problems. Findings from this study provide new insights about amblyopia and strabismus in the young Singaporean Chinese children, and will be useful in the planning and development of public health and medical services.