New research into the structure of the eye in people with Down’s syndrome has found significant differences from the norm. It is well known that people with Down’s syndrome are more likely to suffer from eye conditions such as amblyopia (lazy eye), near or long-sightedness, and an increased risk of cataracts. This research demonstrates that Down’s syndrome sufferers often have problems with both the lens of the eye and the cornea and, despite correction through the use of spectacles, often fail to achieve optimum visual acuity. The European Council of Optometry and Optics (ECOO) calls for patients with Down’s syndrome and their carers to ensure that vision needs are regularly monitored.
