By Benard Orwongo
For the longest time, eye care has been an overlooked facet of healthcare, despite its profound effects on a large segment of the global population.
A recent study has unveiled a distressing reality: countless school-aged children are suffering from eye problems that severely impede their academic progress.
Research from the Kenya Association of Opticians (KAO) reveals that 18 percent of children and 2 percent of teachers grapple with eye issues.
The leading culprit is refractive errors.
Myopia (short-sightedness) accounts for a staggering 67 percent of these cases, while presbyopia comprises 29 percent.
Astigmatism and hyperopia (long-sightedness) collectively make up 2 percent.
Among the students assessed, a significant gender disparity emerged: 87 percent of male students were found to have normal vision, in contrast to 79 percent of female students.
These vision impairments not only contribute to falling academic performance but also pose long-lasting economic challenges.
Affected children often miss out on the quality education needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market.
The solutions
Fortunately, experts assert that with early diagnosis, most eye problems can be effectively managed.
Dr. Njani Ndiritu, chairman of the Kenya Association of Opticians (KAO), passionately underscores the necessity of good vision.
“Vision impairment is a growing challenge that must no longer be ignored,” Dr Ndiritu said.
He further pointed out that while many causes of vision impairment are preventable or treatable, the issue transcends borders.
Global outlook
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 2.2 billion people around the globe live with vision impairment, half of whom could be saved from this plight with timely intervention.
Despite the preventable nature of many eye conditions, systemic challenges persist, including a lack of awareness alongside issues of accessibility and affordability, especially in underserved communities.
Dr. Njani made a compelling case for urgent policy changes: “We must increase the number of eye care practitioners in rural areas. Accessibility is the most significant hurdle”.
Many children in these regions are often misidentified as having learning difficulties when, in reality, their struggles stem from unrecognized vision issues.
Bradley Heslop, CEO of Dot Glasses, stressed the importance of preventive measures such as reducing screen time and encouraging outdoor activities.
“Myopia is rising at an alarming rate globally. The best defense is to limit screen exposure and promote outdoor play, where children can focus on distant objects,” he advised.
Irreversible blindness
Heslop emphasized that while certain eye conditions cannot be reversed, early intervention is crucial to preventing irreversible blindness.
“The earlier you seek treatment, the better the outcome. Conditions like glaucoma may not be reversible, but can be managed effectively to prevent progression,” he added.
Tragically, many in Kenya—and worldwide—lose their sight due to insufficient access to eye care.
“Unaddressed, some eye problems can deteriorate rapidly,” he cautioned.
Dr. Timothy Theuri, CEO of the Kenya Healthcare Federation, urged the government to exempt eye care equipment from tariffs, to make treatment more affordable.
“It is essential to review our current tariff regime. Favorable taxation for devices used in eye care will make this vital service accessible to all,” he stated.
Stakeholders are calling for proactive measures to combat vision loss.
Collaborative approach
Lucy Ayoyi, Quality Assurance and Standards Officer at the Ministry of Education, encourages a collaborative approach between parents and teachers to keep a close eye on children’s eye health.
“Children with vision problems often struggle to articulate their difficulties. Poor academic performance may result not from a lack of ability but from an inability to see clearly,” she said.
“We urge parents to seek professional medical assistance instead of relying on over-the-counter remedies.”
Experts say that timely medical intervention not only prevents further complications but also ensures that children can achieve their full academic potential and secure a brighter future.
They add that prioritising eye care today means empowering the leaders of tomorrow.