By Freda Mwin, GNA
Wa (UW/R), Oct. 13, GNA – Dr Zakarea Al-Hasan Balure, an Optometrist, has urged members of the public to make regular eye examinations a priority to help in early detection and treatment of eye conditions to prevent avoidable blindness.
He said early detection of eye conditions is important for effective treatment and urged the public not to wait until they experience serious symptoms before seeking treatment.
Dr Balure, who is also the Superintendent of Bliss Eye Care, a private eye clinic in Wa, said this in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA), to mark the occasion of World Sight Day, observed annually on the second Thursday of October.
He said the day provided an opportunity for eye care professionals to intensify public education on eye health and encourage people to take better care of their eyes, with the 2026 celebration hinged on the global theme: “Love Your Eyes.”
He explained that the month of October was also used to promote eye screening and other activities aimed at improving access to eye care services, particularly for the less privileged populations.
Dr Balure identified cataract, glaucoma, and refractive errors as some of the major eye conditions affecting people globally, while retinal and corneal problems were also common.
He indicated that conditions such as diabetes and hypertension could contribute to retinal problems, while accidents and injuries could also result in serious eye complications.
The eye specialist observed that persistent redness of the eye, a feeling of having particles in the eyes, excessive watering, and sudden changes in vision, among others, were signs of conditions that needed immediate care.
Dr Balure however, noted that some serious eye conditions, particularly glaucoma, might develop without obvious symptoms, which had made it more imperative for regular check-ups.
He advised the public to undergo eye examinations at least once a year, even when they had no apparent eye problems.
Dr Balure further advised the public against self-medication, patronising unqualified practitioners or resorting to herbal medical practitioners when experiencing eye problems.
The Optometrist also expressed concern about increasing screen time, as prolonged use of mobile phones, computers, televisions and other digital devices could contribute to what is termed as “Computer Vision Syndrome.”
He said prolonged screen use reduced blinking, thereby causing dryness and discomfort, while staring continuously at a fixed distance could also cause eye fatigue.
He advised users of digital devices to take regular breaks, blink frequently and avoid prolonged, uninterrupted screen time.
Dr Balure stressed that good eyesight was essential to learning and everyday life, as a significant proportion of learning is through vision.
GNA
Edited by Christabel Addo