Seeing the future: Prioritizing children's eye health

Imagine a world where millions of children, full of potential, struggle to see the blackboard, a book or even the faces of their loved ones. Sadly, this is a reality for many. As we observe World Sight Day this year, the theme Children, love your eyes highlights the urgent need to focus on children's vision and eye health. The ability to see clearly is fundamental to a child's development, education and overall well-being. Unfortunately, many children suffer from undiagnosed vision problems that can impede their growth and learning. Here, we explore the importance of prioritizing children's eye health, the impact of vision problems on their lives and the proactive steps we can take to ensure a brighter future for our children.

Vision is a vital sense that plays a crucial role in how children interact with their environment. Despite limited data available on children's eye health the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), reports that an estimated 450 million children globally have a sight problem needing treatment and 90 million children are facing vision loss, with many suffering from preventable conditions. Early detection and intervention can significantly alter the trajectory of a child’s life, improving their vision, their academic performance, social interactions and overall quality of life.

Moreover, emerging global trends, such as increasing screen time and rising rates of myopia, suggest that we are on the verge of a children's eye health crisis. Research predicts that by 2050, nearly half of the world’s population will be myopic, with children being among the most affected. Without a robust global response, we risk seeing more children unable to reach their full potential.

Undiagnosed vision problems can have profound consequences on a child's development. Conditions such as amblyopia (lazy eye), strabismus (crossed eyes) and refractive errors (like myopia or hyperopia) can lead to difficulties in learning and socializing. Research shows that children with untreated vision issues often struggle in school, resulting in lower grades, reduced self-esteem and a higher likelihood of behavioural problems.

The economic costs of undiagnosed vision problems are staggering. According to the Global Burden of Myopia Study, uncorrected refractive errors alone lead to billions of dollars in lost productivity every year. When a child's education and development are stunted, he or she is less likely to contribute meaningfully to the workforce in adulthood, creating long-term socioeconomic disadvantages. These challenges disproportionately affect children in low- and middle-income countries, where access to eye care services is limited. Many children in these regions never undergo a comprehensive eye examination, making early detection and intervention impossible. Addressing this gap should be a global priority.

The key to preventing long-term consequences is early detection. Routine eye examinations should begin at an early age, ideally before a child enters school. The Nigerian Optometric Association recommends that children receive their first comprehensive eye exam at six months of age, followed by additional check-ups at age three and before starting school. Regular eye exams can help identify potential issues early, allowing for timely intervention and treatment. Yet, for many families, these services are inaccessible due to financial, geographic or systemic barriers.

To tackle these challenges, governments must integrate eye care into national health policies, especially targeting early childhood and school-aged children. Establishing mandatory vision screenings in schools, coupled with accessible follow-up care, would create a systemic safety net for early detection. Countries that have adopted this approach, such as Singapore and the United States, have seen significant improvements in children's eye health.

The cost of inaction is high, but so is the potential return on investment. This report shows that every $1 invested in vision care yields a $36 return in benefits in terms of improved academic performance, reduced healthcare costs and increased lifetime earnings. Policymakers should view children’s eye health not just as a health intervention, but as a strategic investment in the future workforce and societal well-being.

Despite the importance of eye health, many children, especially in underserved communities, lack access to necessary eye care services. Economic disparities, lack of awareness and inadequate healthcare resources contribute to this issue. In many cases, parents may not realize the significance of regular eye exams or may be unable to afford them.

To address these barriers, it is essential to promote awareness about children's eye health and provide accessible resources for families. Schools can play a pivotal role by integrating vision screenings into their health programmes, ensuring that children receive necessary check-ups without the cost burden.

Several innovative initiatives are emerging to tackle the issue of children's eye health. Non-profit organizations, government agencies and healthcare providers are working together to create programmes aimed at increasing access to eye care for children and young people in need.

Programmes that offer vision screenings and referrals for follow-up care within schools can bridge the gap for children who may not otherwise receive eye care. These initiatives can help identify vision issues early and connect families with resources for treatment.

The rise of telemedicine has made it easier for families to consult eye care professionals, especially in remote or underserved areas. Virtual consultations can provide initial assessments and guide families on whether an in-person visit is necessary. Rwanda, for example, has integrated tele-ophthalmology into its national healthcare system, allowing children in rural communities to receive eye exams without needing to travel to major cities. Scaling these types of innovations could dramatically reduce the number of children who go without eye care.

Public health campaigns aimed at educating families and caregivers about the importance of children's eye health can empower them to prioritize their children's vision care. These campaigns can use social media, local events and partnerships with schools to disseminate vital information.

In addition to promoting access to eye care, creating a supportive environment for children's eye health is essential. Parents, educators and community members can work together to foster healthy habits and practices that benefit children's vision.

In today's digital age, children are exposed to screens more than ever. Parents can establish screen time limits and encourage regular breaks to reduce eye strain. The 20-20-20 rule; taking a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes can help mitigate the effects of prolonged screen exposure.

Reports suggest that spending time outdoors can reduce the risk of developing myopia in children. Encouraging outdoor play benefits their physical health and provides opportunities for social interaction and exploration.

Parents and caregivers play a vital role in monitoring their children's vision. They should be aware of common signs of vision problems, such as difficulty focusing, frequent rubbing of the eyes, squinting, and holding books or screens too close. If any of these symptoms are observed, seeking professional advice promptly can make a significant difference.

A balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can support eye health. Parents and caregivers can introduce colourful fruits and vegetables, fish, and nuts into their children’s meals to promote overall well-being.

As we celebrate World Sight Day and reflect on the theme: Children, love your eyes, it is crucial to recognize the significant role that children's eye health plays in shaping their futures. By prioritizing early detection, increasing access to eye care and fostering a supportive environment, we can ensure that all children have the opportunity to see clearly and thrive.

Together, let us advocate for a world where every child can enjoy the gift of sight and reach their full potential.