Irlen Syndrome Incidence in Cuenca-Ecuador

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of Irlen Syndrome (also known as Meares- Irlen Syndrome/Visual Stress (MISViS)/Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome), and identify the most common physical and visual perceptual discomfort that affects reading in third-grade children of public and private Cuenca urban schools. Two hundred and sixty-seven third graders, as well as directors, parents, and classroom teachers, participated in this study. Children were assessed through observations, interviews, and by applying five tests of the Irlen Reading Perceptual Scale (IRPS®). The prevalence of “severe” Irlen Syndrome in third graders of elementary schools in Cuenca is 25,84%, which may prevent the normal development of the reading process. The most common physical discomforts (PD) when reading were: i) moving closer to or further from the page (19,17%); ii) discomfort when reading under fluorescent lights (18,05%); iii) blinking very often (14,66%); iv) pain, burning of the eyes while reading (12,78%). Within the most common visual perceptual distortions (VPD) identified are: i) the need of using the finger or a marker while reading (37,59%); ii) choppy or slow reading (33,08%); iii) making effort to stay focused on the words, (28,95%); iv) avoiding reading or reading aloud (27,89%), v) having trouble remembering what was read (19,92%) among others. It was concluded that the prevalence of “severe” Irlen Syndrome in Cuenca urban schools that would warrant possible intervention is 25,84%; the most common visual perceptual distortions and physical discomfort when reading were also identified in this study group.