World Sight Day
On World Sight Day, how can you help eye health? Learn ways to make a difference for millions of Aussies with impaired vision. Start with an eye test today!
In October 12th, 2024, World Sight Day will once again bring together the global community in a united effort to raise awareness about vision impairment, blindness, and the critical importance of eye health. This special day serves as a poignant reminder of the need for regular eye check-ups, early detection and treatment of eye conditions, and ensuring universal access to high-quality eye care services. World Sight Day highlights the collaborative efforts to eliminate preventable blindness and improve the well-being of individuals with vision loss. This significant day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of regular eye check-ups, early detection of eye conditions, and the prevention of avoidable blindness, all while advocating for universal access to high-quality eye care services.
It is estimated that over 13 million Australians have one or more chronic (long-term) eye conditions. Chronic eye conditions vary in their presentation, treatment and consequences, but almost all are more common in older people. Chronic eye conditions affected 93% of people aged 65 and over, compared with only 12% among people aged 0–14. Females experience a higher prevalence of chronic eye conditions than males (59% and 51% respectively)*
What should you do on world sight day
Get an Eye Exam: Make sure to book a thorough eye check-up to maintain the health of your vision, and inspire others to do so as well. Schedule your comprehensive eye examination with a trusted optometrist or ophthalmologist in your area.
Advocate for Eye Health: Champion initiatives that enhance the availability of eye care services, especially in marginalized communities. Support organizations that offer eye care services, treatment, and resources to those in need by making a donation.
Education for Eye Health: Spread awareness about the significance of maintaining eye health and preventing vision loss within your community and across social media platforms. Be a driving force for positive change in eye health initiatives by actively spreading awareness and inspiring others to join the movement. Join the movement towards a brighter future for vision care. https://www.vision2020australia.org.au/our-work/worldsightday/
"With 43 million individuals worldwide facing blindness and 217 million experiencing moderate to severe distance vision impairment, it is truly eye-opening to recognize that 90% of these cases are preventable or treatable. This underscores the vital importance of World Sight Day in raising awareness about global eye health issues"
- Dr Adam Plant (Vitreo-Retinal Specialist personalEYES)
"Glaucoma remains one of the leading causes of irreversible sight loss and is usually without symptoms. It is important to see your eye health professional for screening even if there is no family history of it - if we catch the disease early we can help maintain good functional vision for life"
- Dr John Yek (Glaucoma Specialist personalEYES)
History of World Sight Day
World Sight Day was first established in 1998 by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB). Since then, this global initiative has received support from various organizations, governments, and eye care professionals worldwide. World Sight Day has played a crucial role in advocating for eye health, preventing avoidable blindness, and improving access to high-quality eye care services.
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