Free eye screening offered to the public

Eye Care Awareness Month (ECAM), held annually from September 23 to October 20, is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of eye health.

The South African Optometric Association, a professional body that promotes the interests of optometrists, has grown into an organised and focused professional body of approximately 1 800 members.

The association is not operated for profit-making purposes, but rather for the development and promotion of the optometric interests of the country.

The South African Optometric Association (SAOA) optometrists will be conducting a national eye screening marathon on World Sight Day, October 9, when members of the public will be offered free vision screenings.

This screening is not a full eye examination, but could indicate whether anyone has a refractive error and individuals with potential eye problems will be advised to undergo a full eye examination.

“Many people think that if they have no visual symptoms there is no need to have their eyes examined routinely,” said Patrick Mawila, vice-president of SAOA.

“However, an eye examination does not pick up only visual problems (refractive errors), but during this examination, many early signs of potential diseases can be detected and treated before they cause serious problems.”

Research reveals that at least 80 per cent of what children learn is assimilated through their eyes.

Vision problems can, therefore, adversely affect school achievement, sporting ability and, by implication, social integration.

A more focused study of school-going children revealed that only 20 per cent had, had an eye test.

A staggering 80 per cent will struggle with learning and have fewer opportunities as a result of poor vision.

To find your nearest SAOA participating optometrist for a free screening contact the SA Optometric Association on 011 805-4517.