Clinical Report: Astigmatism Up After COVID Restrictions
Overview
A population-based study found delayed increases in refractive and corneal astigmatism among Hong Kong schoolchildren following COVID-19 restrictions. The prevalence of refractive astigmatism rose from 25% in 2020 to 35% in 2022-2023, while corneal astigmatism showed a similar delayed increase.
Background
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's ocular health has garnered attention, particularly regarding myopia. This study highlights a concerning trend of increased astigmatism, which may have implications for pediatric eye care. Understanding these changes is crucial for timely intervention and management in affected populations.
Data Highlights
{'table': {'2015-2019': {'Refractive Astigmatism Prevalence (%)': 23, 'Corneal Astigmatism Prevalence (%)': 60}, '2020': {'Refractive Astigmatism Prevalence (%)': 25, 'Corneal Astigmatism Prevalence (%)': 59}, '2021': {'Refractive Astigmatism Prevalence (%)': 30, 'Corneal Astigmatism Prevalence (%)': 67}, '2022-2023': {'Refractive Astigmatism Prevalence (%)': 35, 'Corneal Astigmatism Prevalence (%)': 65}}}Key Findings
- Refractive astigmatism prevalence increased from 25% in 2020 to 35% in 2022-2023.
- Corneal astigmatism prevalence rose from 59% in 2020 to 65% in 2022-2023.
- The pandemic period was associated with 1.20 times the odds of refractive astigmatism and 1.26 times the odds of corneal astigmatism.
- Mean refractive astigmatism magnitude increased from 0.70 diopters in 2020 to 0.87 diopters in 2022-2023.
- Most children exhibited with-the-rule astigmatism, indicating a steeper vertical meridian.
- Increased near work and decreased outdoor time were noted during the pandemic.
Clinical Implications
The findings suggest a need for enhanced pediatric eye surveillance post-pandemic, particularly for astigmatism. Clinicians should consider the impact of lifestyle changes during the pandemic on children's ocular health and adjust screening and management strategies accordingly.
Conclusion
The study underscores the importance of monitoring astigmatism trends in children, particularly in the context of lifestyle changes induced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Further research is needed to explore long-term outcomes and effective screening strategies.
Related Resources & Content
- Fackler S, Ophthalmology Management, 2025 -- Pandemic induced Lifestyle Changes Linked to Increase in Astigmatism
- DeNaeyer GW, Contact Lens Spectrum, 2020 -- CONTACT LENS CASE REPORTS
- Contact Lens Spectrum, 2017 -- PRESCRIBING FOR ASTIGMATISM
- JAMA Network, 2023 -- Prevalence and Severity of Astigmatism in Children After COVID-19
- Contact Lens Spectrum — PRESCRIBING FOR ASTIGMATISM
- Pediatric Eye Evaluations Preferred Practice Pattern
- Prevalence and Severity of Astigmatism in Children After COVID-19 | Optics and Refraction | JAMA Ophthalmology | JAMA Network
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