On the eve of World Sight Day, observed on October 9, officials from the Srikakulam District Blindness Control Society urged parents and teachers on Tuesday to create awareness among children about eye related complications due to excessive use of mobile phones and computers. District Programme Manager S. Pushpalatham and Paramedical Ophthalmic Officer M .R. K. Das raised the call at an eye-screening programme organised for children at the Primary Health Centre, Naupada, DG Puram of Santhabommali mandal, Srikakulam district.

Speaking to the media, Ms. Pushpalatha said that DBSC prioritises preventing early blindness and restoring sight for elderly individuals with vision problems. Over the last year, the department has conducted eye tests for 85,355 children in 617 government schools. “As many as 4,606 students among them suffered from different kinds of visual defects, were treated and provided spectacles on completion of treatment,” she added.

Mr. M. R. K. Das, a former State general secretary of United Andhra Pradesh Ophthalmic Officers Association said: ““Individuals suffering from diabetes, and blood pressure should consult an ophthalmologist every year to prevent partial and permanent blindness.” He advised youngsters to maintain a 25-inch distance between eyes and computers or smartphones to avoid eye related problems.

He recommended the 20-20-20 eyecare rule and said: “Eyes must be given rest every 20 minutes, by looking at a distant object for 30 seconds and blinking their eyes frequently.” He urged teachers and parents to guide children, especially since children attend online classes regularly.