title: Vision Problems in Homeless Children.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Vision problems in homeless children can decrease educational achievement and quality of life.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To estimate the prevalence and specific diagnoses of vision problems in children in an urban homeless shelter.
  
  
  METHODS
  A prospective series of 107 homeless children and teenagers who underwent screening with a vision questionnaire, eye chart screening (if mature enough) and if vision problem suspected, evaluation by a pediatric ophthalmologist. Glasses and other therapeutic interventions were provided if necessary.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The prevalence of vision problems in this population was 25%. Common diagnoses included astigmatism, amblyopia, anisometropia, myopia, and hyperopia. Glasses were required and provided for 24 children (22%).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Vision problems in homeless children are common and frequently correctable with ophthalmic intervention. Evaluation by pediatric ophthalmologist is crucial for accurate diagnoses and treatment. Our system of screening and evaluation is feasible, efficacious, and reproducible in other homeless care situations.
authors: Natalie L
authors: NL
authors: Smith
authors: Thomas J
authors: TJ
authors: Smith
authors: Diana
authors: D
authors: DeSantis
authors: Marissa
authors: M
authors: Suhocki
authors: Danielle
authors: D
authors: Fenske
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003120:Colorado / Q000453:epidemiology; D005139:Eyeglasses / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005260:Female; D018453:Homeless Youth / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006798:Housing; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D015995:Prevalence; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014505:Urban Population / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D014786:Vision Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000628:therapy; D015351:Vision Screening / Q000379:methods; D055815:Young Adult