Study: Not all kids with glasses need them

According to a study published by the Journal of the American Association of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, up to 25% of children who receive comprehensive vision exams may be unnecessarily prescribed glasses. Further revealed is that optometrists and ophthalmologists typically treat adults and therefore may misdiagnose children. Observed in this study, these professionals prescribed glasses in 35% of their the cases.

Sean Donahue, lead study author and an associate professor of ophthalmology, pediatrics, and neurology at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, notes that it is not uncommon for children to be farsighted yet be able to grow out of it without the intervention of glasses. Instead of a formal eye exam ($150 for glasses plus $100 for the exam), Donahue recommends a less expensive informal screening that may lead to further evaluation if deemed necessary.

The critical factor is diagnosing children who have disorders that may cause permanent damage or negatively effect their ability to learn.

Source: Szabo, Liz. June 24, 2004. “Study: Not all kids with glasses need them,” USA Today.