•Dr Priscilia Imade
Every October is vision awareness month in the eyecare industry and the world celebrates the World Sight Day under the theme “Love Your Eyes,” with the powerful reminder that “Every Story Counts.” This is not just a campaign slogan; it is a call to each of us to pause and think about the gift of sight that we so often take for granted.
Your eyes tell your life’s story. They allow you to read, to learn, to work, to connect with loved ones, and to enjoy the beauty of the world around you.
Yet millions of people still lose their sight every year to conditions that could have been prevented or treated.
Loving your eyes begins at work. Many of us spend long hours in front of screens, often ignoring the discomfort of dry eyes or blurred vision. Simple habits such as taking regular breaks, adjusting your lighting, and having your eyes checked can protect you from long-term damage.
Loving your eyes also matters in school. A child who struggles to see the blackboard or read a book may struggle in every subject. Regular eye examinations, reduced screen time, and more outdoor play are not luxuries; they are investments in a child’s future.
But eye health is not only about work and school. It is about everyday life. Wearing sunglasses to shield your eyes from ultraviolet rays, using protective goggles during sports or household chores, and driving only with clear vision are ways you can keep your sight safe.
As you grow older, your eyes deserve even more care. Diseases like cataract, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease are common with age, but they do not have to steal your independence. Regular screenings, good nutrition, and compliance with medical advice can preserve your vision well into your later years.
So every day, love your eyes. Because every story including yours truly counts.
*Dr Priscilia Imade is CEO, Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. E-mail: moderneyecliniclagos@gmail.com
Another edition of the column returns on Monday in The Frontier.
