Myopia can blind 1 billion people by 2050, says study
Posted on: 14/Oct/2015 11:53:52 AM
A study that was presented at an Association for Research in Vision and Opthalmology meeting says that almost 1 billion people may be blinded by 2050. the study was conducted by researchers at the Brien Holden Vision Institute. They say that myopia, or short sightedness, has become an epidemic and can affect people worldwide if not curbed.
Said one of the professors, Brien Holden Vision Institute is calling on the world - from governments and health agencies, to civil society, parents and schools - to protect the eye health of every child and adult and meet this major public health challenge of our time... Firstly, the public must be made aware that this threat exists. Secondly, we need researchers and public health practitioners to develop effective solutions. Thirdly, eye care professionals need to be better equipped to manage patients at risk... The major concern is with the vast number of people who are likely to progress to high levels of myopia, which brings with it a significantly increased risk of potentially blinding conditions and vision impairment.
