KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 11 (Bernama) -- The Association of Malaysian Optometrists (AMO) is the only and the largest professional body representing optometrists in Malaysia. Contrary to optical stores, optometrists are essential health care providers, specifically primary eye care professionals who identify eye problems and plan a proper course of treatment related to the eye or provide appropriate referrals. In countless cases, eye examination by optometrists saves lives.
 
Since the outbreak of Covid-19, people are at risk of losing sight due to fear of visiting hospitals during the pandemic. In line with global World Sight Day by The International Agency for Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) on 14^th October, AMO will be organising the National Eye Health Awareness (NEHA) campaign themed “Eyes Under Lockdown”. The campaign will run for a month to include events like Facebook Live Public Forums, online treasure hunt and Instagram challenge. Below is the focus of NEHA 2021:
 
1.     Children under lockdown 
Increase use of gadgets among children has been noted since implement of lockdown. Children undergoing more online classes are exposed to higher risk of vision and development issues. According to study, 1 out of 10 Malaysian school children aged 7 years old is short-sighted. By 15 years old, this number rises three times among Malaysian schoolchildren. If current trend continues, it is estimated that 1 out of 2 people will be short-sighted with 20% at increased risk of blindness by 2050.
 
2.      Digital Eye Strain
The surge in digital device use in our work and daily life leads to digital eye strain, which is also known as Computer Vision Syndrome. This leads to lowered work productivity, dry eyes, headache, and other eye related issues.
 
3.      Contact Lens Wear
Contact lens is a medical device professionally prescribed by optometrists, with frequent aftercare visits. However, the pandemic has caused a change in contact lens wearers’ behaviour whereby people are unsure of the safety of contact lens wear.
 
Be sure to look out for NEHA Live Public Forums as a group of experienced optometrists and healthcare professionals come together to address the issues arising from “Eyes Under Lockdown”. Nearly everyone will experience an eye health issue in their lifetime and people should be aware of when and where to seek help, including care for our children, the pillars and future of the country. AMO urges the public to visit optometrists once a year for essential eye care.
 
Watch out for NEHA 2021 events at https://amo.org.my/ or “LIKE” and “FOLLOW” AMO Facebook Page and Instagram @OptometryMalaysia for the latest updates.

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SOURCE: Association of Malaysian Optometrists (AMO)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Ms Allana Lim/ Mr Ahmad Fadhullah Fuzai
Organising Chair
National Eye Health Awareness Campaign 2021
Association of Malaysian Optometrists
Tel: +6017 650 6162
Email: secretariat@amo.org.my 

--BERNAMA