Experts call for periodic eye check-up

Medical experts have urged Nigerians to embrace the culture of periodic eye check-up as a means to curb the growing cases of eye related infections, diseases and defects.

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An Ophthalmologist, Dr. Ogunbekun Oladapo,  stated this during a Twitter Live interview to promote eye-care in Nigeria, he said that larger population of Nigerians who resort to self-medications lack awareness and live in poverty.

Similarly, the experts also warned against patronising quacks while treating eye infections to avert the risk of potential blindness.

“It is better to seek the help of a certified ophthalmic practitioner,” Dr. Oladapo, strongly recommended.

He argued that unauthorised eye-care medication is harmful to the eye and can induce blindness.

“Some people are fond of using urine, breastmilk, kafra, sea or ocean water, brake oil, etc., on their eyes which can even melt the eye.”

“Most eye-related diseases leading to blindness are treatable or preventable. The challenge lies in creating more awareness and changing the existing wrong perception.

“The knowledge and awareness, spur early detection of eye infections and intervention can be effective when done at an early age”.

According to available data, it is estimated that 1.13 million individuals aged 40 years are currently blind in Nigeria. While 2.7 million adults aged 40 years are estimated to have a moderate visual impairment.

With these overwhelming statistics, the awareness for eye health is not limited to regular checks, Experts say it also includes exhibiting certain personal habits which are instrumental to caring for one’s eyes.

“There are lots of ways to take care of one’s eyes. I always like to start by saying one needs to know his or her family history,” Dr. Ronald Ikpe, also a Medical practitioner said.

In addition, he advised that smoking should be avoided.

“eat a balanced diet, eat lots of fruits. If you use a laptop/ desktop very often, make sure you have an anti-glare or make sure that you are not too close to the screen.”

MTO/Vanguard