How Can Eye Screening, Healthy Diet, and Screen Time Control Prevent Vision Problems?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Timely eye screening is crucial for preventing vision problems.
- A healthy diet supports eye health, particularly those rich in Vitamin A.
- Managing screen time is essential, especially for children.
- Regular eye check-ups should be a part of everyone's health routine.
- The theme 'Love Your Eyes' encourages self-care and awareness.
New Delhi, Oct 9 (NationPress) The timely examination of eyes, a nutritious diet, and the regulation of screen time are crucial in preventing vision-related issues, stated Union Health Minister JP Nadda on World Sight Day this Thursday.
World Sight Day takes place on the second Thursday of October to promote awareness regarding blindness and vision impairment.
This year’s theme is "Love Your Eyes", which emphasizes the importance of self-care for vision, advocating for regular eye examinations and preventive health practices to guarantee access to quality eye care for all.
“World Sight Day provides us with a platform to highlight the significance of maintaining good eye health and undergoing regular check-ups. Timely eye screening, a balanced diet, and protective habits can significantly aid in avoiding vision problems,” Nadda mentioned in a post on the social media platform X.
“The theme for this year, ‘Love Your Eyes’, serves as a reminder to prioritize our eyesight in our daily routines,” he added.
The health minister further emphasized the importance of managing screen time, particularly among children, which can worsen vision issues.
“Particular attention must be directed towards children, as their increasing screen time often results in diminished vision. Let’s commit to caring for our eyes and inspire others to follow suit,” Nadda urged.
According to a report by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), approximately 700 million individuals in India suffer from avoidable sight loss, impacting their employment, education, income, and caregiving responsibilities.
The Ministry of Health on X stated that this day reminds us to treasure and safeguard our gift of sight. It recommended healthy habits such as consuming Vitamin A-rich foods and undergoing timely screenings.
“By adopting simple practices like observing the 20-20 rule for eye rest, eating Vitamin A-rich foods, spending time outdoors, minimizing screen time, and attending regular eye check-ups and retina screenings, we can avert avoidable vision problems and secure healthier eyes for the future,” the Ministry added.