Taking action for eye health in a digital world of screens

In our digital age, where many of us spend an average of?6 hours and 40 minutes?daily on screens, with some regions reporting up to?9 hours and 24 minutes?(Exploding Topics, 2024), prioritizing vision health has never been more critical. As a marketer deeply interested in digital communications, I recognize the importance of advocating for eye care information that is vital for our well-being. Neglecting our vision health can pose serious risks not only to ourselves but also to our communities.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated?7.5 million Kenyans?suffer from visual impairments, yet only?1.6 million?have access to effective eye care services (CBM, 2022).

This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for awareness and action. The?Vision Impact Project (VIP)?in Kenya serves as a powerful example of how strategic initiatives can improve access to eye health services. In its first year, the project screened over?one million people, connecting them with necessary eye care and significantly reducing barriers to access (Peek Vision, 2023). The VIP utilizes innovative technology like the?#PeekVisionApp, which allows non-medical personnel to conduct vision screenings and refer patients for further care. This approach not only enhances accessibility but also empowers local communities by training health workers to provide essential eye care services (IAPB, 2024).

Projects like the?NEAR VISION PROJECT?by Healthy Entrepreneurs and?@RestoringVision, backed by Bayer Foundation and Madiro.org , are making strides in addressing these challenges. They focus on providing affordable reading glasses and promoting regular eye examinations, which can drastically improve quality of life. For instance, studies have shown that proper vision correction can lead to a?30% increase in academic performance?among students who receive corrective lenses (Pollination Project, 2024). Moreover, community-based initiatives are crucial for raising awareness about the importance of regular eye check-ups. By educating individuals about common eye diseases and preventive measures, we can foster a culture that prioritizes vision health.

As we approach?#WorldSightDay?on?October 10, let’s take this opportunity to commit ourselves to the cause of eye health. This year's theme emphasizes the importance of loving our eyes and recognizing that healthy vision is vital for everyone, especially children. I urge everyone—marketers, healthcare professionals, educators—to take action:

-Schedule regular eye examinations for yourself and encourage others to do the same.

- Share valuable eye-care information within your networks to raise awareness about the importance of vision health.

-Get involved with or donate to organizations that focus on improving access to eye care services. Together, we can make a significant impact on vision health in our communities. Let’s prioritize our eyes today for a healthier tomorrow! #HopeIsTheWork #HealthcareCloseToYou