An optometrist, Dr. Chinazom Obaje, emphasizes the importance of regular eye exams and a healthy lifestyle to prevent vision loss from glaucoma. He warns that late diagnoses can lead to irreversible blindness.
Dr. Obaje spoke at a free eye care event organized by the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital in Lagos, in collaboration with Gift Health Plus Inc. This outreach offered eye tests, screenings, and medicated glasses over two days.
He shared his concerns about the increasing number of patients with eye issues like glaucoma, cataracts, and blurred vision. Glaucoma, in particular, is a major cause of blindness but can be managed with early detection. Regular eye checks are crucial for spotting early signs, allowing for timely treatment with medication or drops.
Dr. Obaje advises everyone, especially those over 35 or with a family history of eye problems, to get screened every one to two years. He highlights that conditions like diabetes and hypertension raise the risk for eye diseases, so managing these health issues is vital.
A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is also important. Foods like carrots nourish the optic nerves and help combat oxidative stress in the eyes. Maintaining good eating habits can protect the retina and blood vessels.
For those without eye issues, a yearly visit to an eye doctor is recommended. People with glaucoma should go in two to three times a year for check-ups. Seniors over 50 should have their eyes checked at least twice yearly for age-related macular degeneration. Those who wear glasses need to ensure their prescriptions remain accurate, ideally visiting every two years.
Dr. Obaje also notes the increasing challenges of “computer vision syndrome” due to prolonged screen time, highlighting the importance of reducing screen use.
Dr. Chamberlain Nwanne, the Executive Director of Gift Health Plus Inc., explains that the organization focuses on providing essential healthcare to vulnerable groups across Nigeria. They organize outreach programs every six weeks, which have helped nearly 28,000 patients in the last decade by providing glasses, medicines, and other support. However, shipping and import costs for medical supplies are significant hurdles.
Nwanne urges the government to ease these financial burdens. He believes this support could help organizations reach more people in need.
One beneficiary, Mrs. Anofi Bolanle, echoed this sentiment, calling for more outreach programs that provide affordable cataract and glaucoma surgeries. She shared her struggle with the high cost of surgery, illustrating a gap in access to necessary healthcare for many Nigerians.
In summary, regular eye care and healthy living are key to preventing vision loss. Outreach programs play a crucial role in supporting those who cannot afford treatment, but more government support is needed to enhance these efforts.
For additional insights on eye health and management of conditions like glaucoma, check out the CDC’s comprehensive guide on eye health here.
