Background: The purpose of this study was to databank epidemiological information from Romanian children and adults.
Methods: A vision screening was performed on 690 children (2 to 18 years of age) and 190 adults (19 to 77 years of age). Prevalence of refractive errors, binocularity, and ocular health problems were recorded and evaluated.
Results: Data from the childrens' population showed that 45% were emmetropic, 27% were myopic, and 28% were hyperopic. For the adults, 42% were emmetropic, 16% were myopic, and 42% were hyperopic. When compared with other nations, the average refractive error of the Romanian children was more myopic, and for the adults it was slightly more hyperopic. With-the-rule astigmatism had the highest occurrence when compared to other axis orientations, yet the overall occurrence of astigmatism was less than that found in other nations for both children and adults. The prevalence of strabismus and ocular disease was less in the Romanian children in relation to other nations.
Conclusion: Due to many years of isolation from the Free World, little information has been available on nations such as Romania relative to the health status of its people. This study begins an epidemiological base forthe nation. It is especially important to public health officials in planning health policy measures, and provides a basis for additional U.S.-based outreach missions to such nations in Europe. It also illustrates the efficacy of using a basic screening-type examination to determine vision care needs and the use of recycled eyewear to satisfy these needs.