Purpose: To evaluate the prevalence and development of strabismus, at 10 years, in children born prematurely.
Methods: This population-based study included 216 premature and 217 full-term children from the same geographic area.
Results: Strabismus was noted in 16.2% (35 of 216) premature and in 3.2% (7 of 217) full-term children. The most important risk factors for strabismus at 10 years were anisometropia at 6 months, spherical equivalent refractive errors (i.e., > +3 D or < -3 D) at 2.5 years, and various neurologic conditions.
Conclusion: At 10 years, children born prematurely have a greater risk of strabismus than children born at term.