Expressnews
Chennai, October 09, 2024: Dr. Agarwal’s Institute of Optometry, a premier optometry college aegis Dr. AgarwalsGroup of Eye Hospital & Eye Research Centre, conducted free eye examinations for over 400 children across 12 orphanages in Chennai, and donated eyeglasses to those in need. In addition, Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital is making comprehensive eye check-ups free for children at all its clinics and hospitals across the city until October 31st. To register, contact 9594924048
These initiatives were organised in celebration of World Sight Day 2024, observed on the second Thursday of October, with the theme “Love Your Eyes Kids”.
The eyeglasses distribution events, held at the orphanages, featured the screening of videos on eyecare for children, distribution of school supplies, and refreshments. Fun-filled games were also organised for the children. The events, held with the theme of ‘A Day of Sight and Smiles’, were supported by Optometry Confederation of India (OCI), Zeiss, HOYA Vision Care, and The Rotary Club of Chennai Mitra.
Commenting on the initiative, Dr. S. Soundari, Regional Head – Clinical Services, Dr Agarwal Eye Hospital, stated, “Globally, 450 million children have sight conditions that require treatment, with many lacking access to affordable eye care. In India, an estimated 1 in 1000 children aged 0-15 are blind, marking the highest number of blind children in any single country. The crude prevalence of myopia stands at approximately 7.5% among children aged 5-15. Studies say that children with vision impairment are 2-5 times less likely to attend school, and also miss out on social interactions. The need of the hour is collective action to make eyecare services affordable and accessible – besides, creating awareness about the ways to promote vision health. With the World Sight Day events focused on children’s vision, we are reaffirming our dedication to a future where every child has access to affordable and available eye care.”
Sharing the highlights of the program, Dr Karpagam Damodaran, Dean of Dr Agarwals Institute of Optometry, said, “Considering the increasing rate of prevalence of eye health issues among children, it is crucial that all the stakeholders including the public take action to inspire young people to prioritise their eye health. Our free eye checkups and distribution of eyeglasses, benefited over 400 children across 12 orphanages in Chennai. Our objective is to ensure that children have the knowledge they need to protect their eyes and take proactive steps for their vision. Hence our team dedicated several hours at each care home, educating children on eye care and hygiene, through videos and demonstrations to reinforce these lessons.”
Discussing key preventive care steps, Dr. Manjula Jayakumar, Senior Pediatric Ophthalmologist, Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital, said, “Children must understand that their eyes are precious and can be protected through simple habits like washing hands before touching their eyes, using clean tissues instead of rubbing, and giving their eyes regular breaks from screens. They should also protect their eyes from the sun with sunglasses, avoid sharing personal items like towels or eye drops, and strengthen their vision with healthy foods like carrots and leafy greens. And if they experience eye strain or frequent headaches, it means they need the help of an eye care specialist.”
