The 12th of October 2023 is World Sight Day. All of us take our vision for granted, and forget how precious the gift of sight is. Just imagine not seeing the clear blue skies, the faces of those you love- or not being able to read or write or drive!
The World Sight Day is a reminder for all of us to not take our vision for granted.
Blindness and Vision Impairment
As per WHO estimates, almost 2.2 billion people have some form of vision impairment or blindness.
More than half of these have blindness that could have either been prevented, or treated. Conditions like refractive errors, and cataract which have simple solution, namely use of glasses, and cataract surgery. And diseases like glaucoma, which if diagnosed and treated on time, may not progress to loss of vision.
World Sight Day: Awareness and Advocacy
The World Sight Day is celebrated every year to increase awareness about eye issues. The second Thursday of October is the day chosen to focus worldwide attention on vision impairment. The International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) coordinates the worldwide efforts to this effect.
World Sight Day 2023 is October 12, 2023. This year’s theme is #LoveYourEyes.
How Can You Contribute?
- You can make a difference by supporting, and contributing to organizations working to help eradicate vision impairment and blindness. These include Optometry Giving Sight, Lions Club International Foundation (where you can donate old glasses for recycling also), Orbis International, and so many others.
- Pledge your eyes: You can contact your local eye bank and pledge to donate your eyes at the time of death. You can also encourage your friends and family to do the same.
- Be an advocate for vision in your own home and community: Make sure you go for an eye check up. Encourage your family and friends to schedule their annual eye examination. You will actually be helping them to see more clearly.
- Listen to your eye doctor: Ask your eye doctor for advice about vision care and prevention of blindness. Remember to control your blood pressure, blood sugar and serum cholesterol. Eat healthy. Remember to exercise regularly. Stop smoking. They will all help preserve your eyes.
Make a difference on World Sight Day
Celebrate World Sight Day with the rest of the world, and your family. Talk about how important your eyes are, donate, volunteer, raise funds, pledge your eyes, and schedule your eye tests. There is so much you can do to make the world a brighter place!
