Parents and guardians have been advised to adopt preventive measures to ensure that their children and wards are protected against all forms of eye-related issues that could cause defects and undermine their overall well-being.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Due Process and Public Procurement Bureau, Dr. Oluebube Chukwu, gave this charge while speaking with newsmen at his Government House office in Umuahia shortly after an awareness exercise to mark World Sight Day in the city. He emphasized that parents should be proactive in taking adequate care of their children rather than reactive when situations worsen.
While commending the Abia Eye Health Management Bureau, under the leadership of Dr. Betty Emeka Obasi, for organizing the sensitization exercise, Dr. Chukwu stated that the theme for this year’s World Sight Day, “Love Your Eyes, Kids,” is timely and appropriate, adding that the shift in focus on children is of utmost importance.
“It is very important that children are prioritized, considered, and supported regarding their eye health. Most of the prevalent eye diseases, as we know, are hereditary, and when detected early, it helps mitigate the far-reaching consequences of eye issues as they grow up.
“Subjecting children to regular check-ups, early detection, and providing the necessary medications, multivitamins, and supplements helps to address the situation in time,” he said.
The Due Process Boss urged the Abia Eye Health Management Bureau to continue its awareness and sensitization campaigns, as well as free eye check outreach programs. He also encouraged engagement with stakeholders in the health community and collaboration with the requisite professionals to ensure that eye healthcare facilities are in top-notch condition to attract residents from outside the state for routine eye checks here in Abia.
