Parents should make sure their children get screened for amblyopia, often called "lazy eye," a disorder that can cause permanent vision loss, according to ophthalmologists at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

Amblyopia is poor vision in an eye that did not develop normal sight during early childhood. It is the most common vision problem in preschool-aged children.

"When undetected or left untreated, amblyopia can result in permanent vision loss," said Ronald Keech, M.D., service director of pediatric ophthalmology and the adult strabismus clinic.

Early detection of amblyopia is critical to a child's eyesight. Free vision-screening is available throughout Iowa thanks to "Coming to Your Senses," jointly sponsored by the Lions Clubs of Iowa and UI Hospitals and Clinics. The program uses a special Polaroid® camera to take pictures of a child's eyes to detect vision problems.

For more information or to discuss scheduling a screening session, visit online at www.uihealthcare.com/eyecare or contact the Coming To Your Senses program at 319-353-7616.