The Optometric Association is sounding the alarm over Nigeria’s blindness rate –

The Optometric Association has expressed concern over what it described as the massive brain drain of eyecare professionals from Nigeria to other countries.

The Association says this has increased blindness statistics in Nigeria and could lead to a pandemic of blindness if urgent attention is not given by government and other industry stakeholders.

The eye is without a doubt one of the most important organs in the body and ensuring that it is functioning at its maximum is of the utmost importance.

But the statistics of visually impaired people around the world have become so alarming

ARVO Journals June 2020 estimates that of the 7.79 billion people in 2020, 49.1 million were blind

In addition, according to the WHO, worldwide, at least 2.2 billion people have visual impairment near or far, half of which could have been prevented.

More than half of people with disabilities live in developing countries

Nigeria’s toll shows around 50 million people have some form of visual impairment, limiting their abilities to play, learn, work or contribute meaningfully to their societies

The Nigerian Association of Optometry highlights these challenges as it celebrates its 45th annual conference, stressing that it has had a great impact on economic productivity

The increasing use of mobile phones and other electronic gadgets is now of concern to the Association, which raises awareness of the harmful effects on the eyes.

The issue of blindness and raising awareness to prevent avoidable blindness in Nigeria has been an issue that has been front and center for health professionals so far.

The issue of brain drain from optometrists and other eye care professionals may further complicate the matter, whatever policy the government may come up with.

While brain drain is not synonymous with eye care workers in the healthcare industry, it is a complication the industry can ill afford at this crucial time with such alarming statistics as an increase preventable blindness across the country.