Role of Optometrists in Safeguarding Children’s Vision

Dr. Mohd Mizanur Rahman

By Dr Mohd Mizanur Rahman

Every year, the world comes together on World Sight Day to raise awareness of the importance of eye health and the need to address preventable vision loss. In 2024, this global event will be observed on October 10, with a special focus on children’s eye health. Coordinated by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) under their “Love Your Eyes” campaign, this year’s theme centres on providing children worldwide with the opportunity to love and care for their eyes. The spotlight on children is both timely and crucial, considering that an alarming 450 million children around the globe are currently living with sight conditions that require treatment. For these children, access to quality eye care is often a gateway to better education, personal development, and a brighter future.

The Significance of Child Eye Health Children’s vision plays a pivotal role in their cognitive, social, and emotional development. Uncorrected vision impairment in childhood can lead to various issues, most notably in their ability to learn. Studies have shown that children with undiagnosed vision problems are at a higher risk of poor academic performance, often struggling to read or focus in class.

Research has indicated that children who are prescribed and regularly use spectacles can reduce their risk of academic failure by 44%, underscoring the critical connection between clear vision and educational success.

This year, World Sight Day 2024 emphasizes the necessity of ensuring children have access to regular eye screenings and appropriate treatment. “We all know that in children, an uncorrected vision impairment can severely impact their education,” said Peter Holland, CEO of IAPB.  “Research tells us that children with access to, and being prescribed spectacles can reduce failing rates by 44%. It is

knowledge like this that has led us to make World Sight Day 2024 one for children around the world.”

The impact of poor vision extends beyond the classroom. Vision impairment can affect children’s self-esteem, social interactions, and future opportunities. Timely intervention can make all the difference in ensuring they reach their full potential.

Guardians of Children’s Vision, Optometrists play an indispensable role in preventing and managing vision problems in children. They are often the first point of contact in identifying refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. With the rise of myopia among children due to increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities, the

role of optometrists has become even more critical in recent years.

Early Detection and Diagnosis: Optometrists are trained to perform comprehensive eye exams that can detect early signs of vision problems. For children, regular eye screenings are vital, as many may not be aware they have a vision issue. Optometrists use specialized equipment and techniques to assess the health of the eyes and identify any refractive errors or other conditions that could affect a child’s ability to see clearly.

Prescribing Corrective Lenses: Once a vision problem is diagnosed, optometrists are responsible for prescribing corrective lenses, such as glasses or contact lenses, tailored to the child’s specific needs.

By ensuring that children can see clearly, optometrists help them overcome barriers to learning and participation in daily activities.

Management of Progressive Conditions: In addition to detecting refractive errors, optometrists also monitor progressive conditions such as myopia. As the prevalence of myopia continues to increase globally, especially in urbanized areas where children spend more time indoors, optometrists play a key role in managing its progression through specialized lenses, therapies, and lifestyle

recommendations.

Education and Awareness: Optometrists are advocates for eye health, educating parents, caregivers, and schools about the importance of regular eye check-ups. They work closely with educators and healthcare providers to raise awareness about common eye conditions and the long-term benefits of early detection and treatment.

Pledging for Better Vision: World Sight Day 2024 Initiatives World Sight Day 2024 presents several opportunities for individuals and organizations to get involved. IAPB, together with its Love Your Eyes Global Partners and Members, is calling on parents, caregivers, and schools to pledge an eye test on behalf of a young person. By making this pledge, families can contribute to a global movement aimed at improving the vision of millions of children around the world.

A child’s pledge to #LoveYourEyes can have a lasting impact not only on their individual eye health but also on raising awareness about the importance of vision care for all children. Schools and organizations are encouraged to participate in the Global Challenge by screening the vision of children, while parents and caregivers are invited to ensure their children receive routine eye exams.

Caroline Casey, President of IAPB, emphasized the importance of collective action: “IAPB has proven that when we work together, we create noise and an enthusiasm that is hard to ignore.

Therefore, I am calling on everyon to work to ensure that children around the world have access to clear, healthy vision.”

The Future of Children’s Eye Health: A Shared Responsibility The fight to protect and promote children’s eye health cannot be waged by optometrists alone. It requires a concerted effort from governments, health organizations, educational institutions, and communities. Ensuring that children have access to affordable and quality eye care should be a priority for policymakers worldwide.

The International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, alongside organizations like the Seva Foundation, Sightsavers, and Johnson & Johnson Vision, continues to push for global awareness and action. These organizations are working tirelessly to ensure that eye care services reach even the most

underserved communities, where children are disproportionately affected by preventable vision loss.

The integration of eye care into school health programs is one effective way to ensure early detection and treatment of vision problems in children. Schools play a crucial role in identifying children who may need vision care and providing access to regular screenings. By collaborating with healthcare providers, schools can help create a supportive environment where eye health is prioritized alongside academic achievement.

World Sight Day 2024 shines a spotlight on the urgent need to prioritize children’s eye health.

Optometrists, as the front-line defenders of vision, play a crucial role in safeguarding the sight of millions of children worldwide. Through early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and education, they help ensure that children have the opportunity to see clearly, learn effectively, and live fulfilling lives.

However, the responsibility of protecting children’s vision does not rest on optometrists alone. It is a shared duty of parents, caregivers, schools, and policymakers to promote awareness and ensure access to quality eye care for all children. As we celebrate World Sight Day 2024, let us remember that by loving our eyes, especially those of our children, we are investing in a brighter future for the next generation.

(Dr Mohd Mizanur Rahman is a Vision Scientist and Clinical Researcher Assistant Professor and Research Fellow Management and Science University, Malaysia Chief Advisor, Bangladesh Optometric Society)