AN Optometrist, Dr. Comfort Omo-Irabor, has disclosed that excessive and unguided use of cell phones and computers can lead to vision loss.
Omo-Irabor, who made this known to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday, May 7, in Warri, called for careful handling, advising users to always take preventive measures while using electrical gadgets, saying they produce destructive rays that are harmful to the eyes.
She counselled Nigerians to wear glasses or other protective measures while using cell phones and computers, adding: “Excessive use of cell phones and computers contribute to vision loss if preventive measures are not taken.
“The gadgets produce destructive rays that are harmful to the eyes and can cause vision loss.
“It is advisable for users to engage protective measures to prevent direct contact with the cell phones and computers.”
Omo-Irabor, also a consultant in low vision, decried the poor awareness on vision-related diseases in the country and solicited the assistance of the media, as there is low awareness creation during the annual World Sight Day programmes of the Nigerian Association of Optometrists.
“The World Sight Day gives Optometrists the opportunity to offer free eye screening and examination to members of the public.
“Unfortunately, there is poor awareness creation of the yearly programme. Otherwise, people would have taken its advantage to get their eyes examined,” she said.
Omo-Irabor bemoaned that Nigerians hardly go for medical checks, which is a common practice in the Western world, noting: “In this part of the world, people find it difficult to go for medical check-ups unless when they have major complaints.
“Early detection helps in addressing any health condition; people should go for regular eye examination.”
She listed some of the eye conditions to include cataract and glaucoma, noting that to check one’s eyes yearly is to see clearly.
