According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), an estimated 19 million children worldwide are visually impaired, 12 million of which could have their vision restored with proper eye care.
August is Children’s Eye Health Month and Dr Maanda Mabogo, an ophthalmologist, says it is time to focus on the importance of quality eye-care.
“Good vision is essential for learning, playing and interacting with the world around us. However, many children, especially those in rural areas, do not have access to the eyecare they need,” said Mabogo.
“Another major issue for most South Africans is costs involved in acquiring treatment, while others rely solely on services rendered by state medical facilities, that is buckling under lengthy waiting periods.”
Mabogo continues by saying it is therefore paramount that parents, guardians and educators are aware of the early warning signs, which may indicate that a child is in dire need of essential eye examinations.
“Children’s lives can be significantly affected by untreated visual issues which may impair their capacity for learning, play and active participation,” she said.
“It may further result in social exclusion and low self-esteem.”
Some indicators relating to early onset visual impediments include:
• Frequent rubbing of the eyes and complaints of itching eyes
• Holding books or other objects close to the face.
• Difficulty seeing in dim light.
• Frequent headaches
• Abnormal head position
• Frequent blinking
• Squinting or squeezing of the eyes
Should your child present any of the symptoms, it is advised to seek the advice of an ophthalmologist or optometrist.
“Early diagnosis and treatment of visual issues can aid in preventing long-term issues,” said Mabogo.
“Children’s development, learning and general well-being depend on having good vision.”
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