Cortical Visual Impairment Awareness Month: Supporting a Growing Community Wolrdwide
September marks Cortical Visual Impairment Awareness Month, a crucial time to spotlight the leading cause of visual impairment in children across developed countries, including the United States. Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) is a brain-based visual disorder resulting from damage to the brain’s visual processing centres, not the eyes themselves.
Despite its prevalence, CVI remains underdiagnosed, leaving many children without the necessary support and resources. This article delves into the significance of Cortical Visual Impairment Awareness Month, provides research-backed insights, and highlights available resources to support individuals with CVI and their families.
What Is Cortical Visual Impairment?
Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI), also known as Cerebral Visual Impairment, is a neurological condition where the brain has difficulty processing visual information due to damage or atypical development in the visual pathways. Unlike ocular visual impairments, which stem from issues within the eyes, CVI originates in the brain’s visual processing centres.
Common Causes of CVI:
- Perinatal hypoxia or ischemia (lack of oxygen or blood flow during birth)
- Traumatic brain injury
- Infections such as meningitis or encephalitis
- Hydrocephalus (accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain)
- Stroke affecting the occipital lobe
CVI by the Numbers
Understanding the prevalence of CVI is essential for raising awareness and allocating resources effectively.
| Statistic | Data | Source |
| Estimated children with CVI in the U.S. | Over 180,000 | |
| Percentage of children with visual impairment due to CVI | 24% | |
| CVI prevalence in children with cerebral palsy | 26% to 83% |
Recognising CVI: Signs and Symptoms
Children with CVI may exhibit a range of visual behaviours that differ from typical ocular visual impairments. Recognising these signs is crucial for early intervention.
Common Indicators:
- Inconsistent visual responses
- A preference for certain colours, especially red or yellow
- Difficulty recognising faces or objects
- Better visual performance in familiar environments
- Delayed visual responses
Importance of Cortical Visual Impairment Awareness Month
Cortical Visual Impairment Awareness Month serves as a platform to educate the public, healthcare professionals, and educators about CVI. Increased awareness leads to earlier diagnoses, better support systems, and improved outcomes for those affected.
Goals of the Awareness Month:
- Promote early detection and diagnosis
- Advocate for specialised educational resources
- Encourage research into effective interventions
- Support families and caregivers
Resources and Support for Individuals with CVI
Access to appropriate resources can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with CVI.
Educational and Support Organisations:
- Perkins School for the Blind: Offers comprehensive resources and programs for individuals with CVI.
- American Printing House for the Blind (APH): Provides educational materials and assistive technology solutions.
- National Eye Institute (NEI): Conducts research and disseminates information on visual impairments, including CVI.
Assistive Technologies:
- Eye Gaze Technology: Enables individuals with CVI to interact with computers and communication devices using eye movements.
- Smart Glasses: Devices like OrCam MyEye assist in reading and recognising faces.
- Augmented Reality Glasses: Products such as OxSight enhance visual perception for those with low vision.
FAQs on Cortical Visual Impairment
Q1: How is CVI different from other visual impairments?
A1: CVI is caused by brain-related issues affecting visual processing, whereas other visual impairments typically result from problems within the eyes themselves.
Q2: Can children with CVI improve their vision over time?
A2: Some children may experience improvements with appropriate interventions and therapies, but outcomes vary depending on the severity and underlying causes.
Q3: Are there specific educational strategies for children with CVI?
A3: Yes, tailored educational approaches that consider the unique visual processing needs of children with CVI are essential for effective learning.
Q4: Where can I find support and resources for CVI?
A4: Organisations like Perkins School for the Blind, APH, and NEI offer extensive resources, support groups, and information for individuals with CVI and their families.
Conclusion
Cortical Visual Impairment Awareness Month is a vital initiative to shed light on a prevalent yet often misunderstood condition. By increasing awareness, promoting early diagnosis, and providing access to specialised resources, we can improve the lives of those affected by CVI. Support from educational institutions, healthcare providers, and the community is essential in this endeavour.
