“A Review of Knowledge, Awareness, and Practice Among Eye Care Professionals Towards Convergence Insufficiency: Prevalence, Diagnosis, and Treatment Innovations in young adults.”

Abstract

This review investigates convergence insufficiency (CI), a prevalent non-strabismic binocular vision disorder, in young adults aged 18–35 years. CI disrupts near vision tasks, leading to symptoms like eye strain, headaches, and difficulty concentrating, significantly affecting productivity and quality of life in today's digital age. While global CI prevalence averages 7.98%, it is markedly higher in India at 37.2%, particularly among students. Despite its impact, clinical management remains inconsistent due to variability in diagnostic criteria and treatment outcomes. A systematic review of 45 studies published between 1999 and 2023 (one from 1983) identified 25 that met inclusion criteria, emphasizing diagnostic techniques, therapeutic strategies, and the practices of optometrists and ophthalmologists. Findings reveal a research focus on children, with limited data on young adults, and highlight variability in knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among eye care professionals. Key gaps include the need for robust data on CI prevalence using vergence and accommodative assessments, standardized evaluation of professional KAP through structured tools, and exploration of remote diagnosis and treatment options via software-based solutions. Additionally, comparing traditional therapies like the Brock String with modern methods such as VR-based interventions could refine management strategies. Addressing these gaps is essential for improving CI diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes in young adults.