Health professionals have highlighted that eye diseases have become a significant health challenge in modern times, largely due to the increased use of electronic devices and digital lifestyles.
Dr. Ahmed Mamdouh Al-Ashtoukhi, an eye specialist, emphasized that vision impairment and blindness are among the most preventable health issues worldwide. He noted that over a billion people globally suffer from visual problems that can be treated or avoided through early intervention.
He explained that factors such as desert environments, excessive screen usage, and heavy reliance on air conditioning significantly contribute to the rise of eye diseases.
Cataracts, he pointed out, are a leading cause of vision decline in the elderly, resulting from aging, prolonged UV exposure, smoking, and poor nutrition. Treatment requires precise surgery to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a transparent artificial lens, as eyeglasses do not remedy the condition. Additionally, diabetic retinopathy poses a considerable challenge in a country with high diabetes rates, as about 17% of individuals aged 20 to 79 have type 2 diabetes, increasing their risk of vision loss.
He stressed the importance of not ignoring warning signs that may indicate severe eye diseases, such as sudden vision loss, flashes of light or floaters, sharp eye pain, or sudden redness and blurriness. These symptoms could signal retinal detachment or the onset of acute glaucoma, both of which require immediate medical attention to prevent blindness. Other warning signs, like difficulty distinguishing colors, double vision, or increased sensitivity to light, also necessitate a prompt visit to an eye care professional.
Daily Risks
Dr. Samer Mohammed Jameel, an eye surgeon, noted that excessive screen time has become a daily threat to eye health, particularly for children who spend extended periods in front of tablets and smartphones. This leads to eye strain, concentration issues, and an increase in myopia at a young age.
He stated, “It is crucial to teach children the 20-20-20 rule: after every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This simple guideline effectively alleviates visual stress.”
He added that poor habits, such as frequently rubbing the eyes, could result in corneal weakening, known as keratoconus. Reading or using devices in low light contributes to chronic eye strain, while prolonged close-up focus is one of the most damaging practices in the long run.
Dr. Prem Tanwar, an ophthalmologist, affirmed that preventable blindness caused by conditions like cataracts or corneal opacity still affects millions worldwide due to limited access to medical services.
He remarked, “We need not only an increase in surgical procedures but also targeted interventions that enhance quality of life and restore true vision to individuals. Sight is dignity, independence, and hope, which should be ensured for everyone.” Dr. Prashi Rathore, an eye specialist at the Modern International Hospital, echoed that eye health is a fundamental human right. She highlighted that approximately 80% of blindness cases globally can be avoided through regular check-ups and simple preventive measures.
Regular Examinations
Dr. Ghaleb Faisal Saif, a consultant and head of the ophthalmology department at NMC Royal Hospital in Khalifa City, stated that routine eye exams include more than just measuring visual acuity; they also involve assessing the retina and optic nerve, which can help detect systemic diseases like hypertension and diabetes.
He emphasized that early detection allows for the treatment of diseases before they worsen, and correcting minor vision problems such as myopia or hyperopia positively impacts daily productivity and quality of life.