ILOILO – With cases of preventable blindness still affecting Filipinos, the Department of Health (DOH) in Western Visayas is intensifying its campaign on eye health this August, declared as Sight-Saving Month.
The agency is urging the public to take proactive measures such as regular check-ups, early screenings for children, and lifestyle adjustments to protect their vision.
“Vision is a crucial function that allows us to see and interpret the world around us. Taking care of our eyes is essential for maintaining good eyesight throughout our lives. It is highly recommended to begin eye screenings for children as early as kindergarten. Early detection of potential eye problems can lead to timely intervention and treatment, minimizing the risk of long-term vision issues,” said DOH-6 in a public statement in Tagalog.
The agency warned against ignoring sudden vision changes.
“It’s vital to remain vigilant for signs of eye problems. If you notice any sudden changes in your vision — such as loss of vision, blurriness, or distortion — be sure to consult an eye care specialist as soon as possible,” it added.
Other red flags include eye pain, redness, floaters, frequent headaches, and persistent eye strain, which may indicate serious conditions requiring urgent treatment. DOH-6 emphasized that refractive errors, glaucoma, and cataracts often worsen if left undiagnosed.
The department also reminded the public to adopt protective measures. Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, using goggles or shields in hazardous environments, and eating nutrient-rich foods such as leafy greens, carrots, and omega-3 sources like salmon and walnuts can all help maintain healthy eyesight.
“Iwasan ang eye strain sa pamamagitan ng paglilimita sa paggamit ng gadgets at paggamit ng tamang ilaw habang nagbabasa o nagtatrabaho,” it stressed, further recommending the 20-20-20 rule: “every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.”
In its reminder in Hiligaynon, the DOH underscored the irreplaceable value of sight: “Isa lang ka pares ang aton mata, isa ka regalo nga indi mabakal, mag pa-check-up sa imo nga mata, bisan wala sang may ginabatyag, importante nga malikawan ang problema. Agosto ang Sight-Saving Month, aton isipon ang importansiya sang maayo nga panan-aw. Bantayi ang imo panan-aw, mag pa check-up na subong.”
“By taking these proactive steps to care for our eyesight, we can enhance our visual health and enjoy a better quality of life. Let’s keep our eyes on the prize — clear, healthy vision for everyone,” DOH-6 added./PN
