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How we can ensure a brighter future for our eyes

Published : Saturday, 18 January, 2025 at 12:00 AM  Count : 359
As we enter January, two critical observances take centre stage: National Eye Care Month and National Glaucoma Awareness Month. These initiatives aim to educate people about the importance of maintaining good eye health and the dangers of glaucoma-a silent, sight-stealing condition. With over 2.2 billion people globally living with vision impairment or blindness, raising awareness about eye care is more vital than ever.

Why Eye Health Matters: Your eyes are your window to the world. Healthy vision plays a critical role in education, employment, and overall well-being. Despite this, eye health is often neglected, particularly in countries like Bangladesh, where a lack of awareness and access to healthcare can result in preventable blindness.

Eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy are silent threats. They often develop without noticeable symptoms, making routine eye exams essential. In Bangladesh, where diabetes and hypertension are rising, these conditions are becoming increasingly common.

Prioritizing eye care is not just an individual responsibility but a public health necessity. Governments, healthcare providers, and communities must work together to make eye care accessible and affordable for all.

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. Often referred to as the "silent thief of sight," it damages the optic nerve without showing noticeable symptoms in its early stages. According to the World Health Organization, glaucoma affects over 76 million people globally, a number expected to rise in the coming decades.

In Bangladesh, where healthcare awareness is still developing, glaucoma remains a significant challenge. Many patients are diagnosed in advanced stages when treatment options are limited. Risk factors for glaucoma include: Age (people over 40 are at higher risk), Family history of glaucoma, High intraocular pressure, Diabetes, Myopia (nearsightedness).
Regular comprehensive eye exams are crucial for detecting glaucoma early. These exams can include tonometry to measure eye pressure, visual field testing, and optic nerve imaging. Early diagnosis allows for timely treatment, such as medication, laser therapy, or surgery, to slow or stop the progression of the disease.

Simple Steps to Protect Your Eyes: Eye care doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Here are some simple yet effective ways to maintain healthy vision: Schedule Regular Eye Exams: Adults should have a comprehensive eye exam at least once every two years, while children need routine check-ups to detect vision problems early. Maintain a Balanced Diet: Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, are excellent for eye health. Include plenty of leafy greens, carrots, citrus fruits, and fish in your diet. Protect Your Eyes: Use protective eyewear when working in dusty or hazardous environments, and wear sunglasses with UV protection when outdoors. Limit Screen Time: Digital devices can strain your eyes, leading to discomfort and blurred vision. 

Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Manage Chronic Conditions: Diabetes and hypertension are major contributors to vision loss. Keep these conditions under control through regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle. Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye conditions. Quitting smoking can significantly improve your eye health. Practice Good Hygiene: Avoid rubbing your eyes, wash your hands frequently, and ensure contact lenses are cleaned and stored properly. Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise can lower the risk of systemic diseases that affect eye health, like diabetes and hypertension.

Eye Care Challenges in Bangladesh: Bangladesh faces unique challenges in providing comprehensive eye care services to its population. These include: Lack of Awareness: Many people are unaware of the importance of routine eye exams. Eye problems are often ignored until they become severe. Limited Access to Services: Rural areas, where the majority of the population resides, lack adequate eye care facilities and trained professionals. Economic Barriers: Poverty prevents many from seeking timely eye care, even when services are available. Cultural Beliefs: Misconceptions about eye diseases and their treatment can lead to delays in seeking medical attention.

Initiatives to Improve Eye Health in Bangladesh: Organizations and healthcare providers are working tirelessly to address these challenges. Some notable efforts include: Community Eye Camps: Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) frequently organize free eye camps to provide screenings, surgeries, and glasses to underserved populations. 

Public Awareness Campaigns: Social media, television, and radio are being used to educate people about eye health and the need for regular check-ups. 

Training Programs: Initiatives to train more optometrists and ophthalmic technicians are helping to bridge the gap in eye care services. 

Government Support: The Ministry of Health has introduced programs to combat preventable blindness, including subsidized cataract surgeries and school-based vision screenings.

A Call to Action: This January, let us commit to prioritizing our eye health and encouraging others to do the same. By spreading awareness about the importance of eye care and diseases like glaucoma, we can make a collective effort to reduce preventable blindness in Bangladesh.

Governments, NGOs, and healthcare providers in Bangladesh should also take the initiative to organize free eye camps, especially in rural areas, to provide comprehensive eye checkups and treatments for underprivileged communities.

Your Role in Promoting Eye Health: Everyone has a role to play in fostering a culture of eye health. Here's how you can contribute: Schedule an eye exam for yourself and your family members this month. Encourage friends and colleagues to prioritize their eye health. Support organizations working to improve access to eye care in Bangladesh. Spread awareness through social media or community events.

This January, let's make a collective effort to prioritize our vision. National Eye Care Month and National Glaucoma Awareness Month remind us that eye health is integral to overall well-being. By taking proactive steps-such as regular eye exams, adopting healthy habits, and supporting awareness initiatives-we can ensure a brighter future for our eyes.

Remember, vision is a precious gift. Take care of it today to enjoy a clearer tomorrow.

The writer is Vision Scientist & Consultant, and Assistant Professor and Research Fellow, Management and Science University, Malaysia



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