Visual impairment secondary to uncorrected refractive errors in childhood (myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism) is an important health problem and may lead social, educational and economical disability in adulthood. In this study, we reviewed the literature about future effects of refractive errors in children on education and quality of life.

Refractive problems can be easily diagnosed and corrected with spectacles as a cost effective treatment modality. However, recognition of refractive errors in children at family or school level is critical to prevent irreversible visual deterioration from amblyopia. In adulthood, these patients are generally faced with loss of social, educational and occupational oppurtinities.

World Health Organization (WHO) recommends and supports school screening programs to prevent refractive error related vision loss in children. Teachers have an important role in screening programs; however, awareness campaigns and education of the parents can help to overcome all barriers against visual rehabilitation.

In Turkey, most common complaint of refractive error in childhood is watching television closely, inability to read and decrease in school success. The teachers conduct school screening programs and refer suspected children to an ophthalmologist by giving information to the parents. However, after correct diagnosis of refractive error, compliance of children and parents to spectacle should be provided.

In conclusion, recognizing refractive errors in children has critical importance, and irreversible visual impairment due to amblyopia affects socio-economical area of life. Therefore, communication among teacher, parents, ophthalmologist and child should be well established.