Northeast

50 per cent of world population will require spectacles: Manipur Health minister

Manipur Health and Family Welfare Minister Sapam Ranjan warned that excessive screen time may lead to what some are calling the next major health crisis—a ‘digital pandemic’ caused by prolonged exposure to screens.

ByIFP Bureau

Updated 31 Oct 2024, 3:53 am

IFP Representational Image

Manipur Health and Family Welfare Minister Sapam Ranjan on Wednesday raised serious concerns on the increasing global prevalence of vision correction needs, stating that 50 per cent of the world population will require spectacles soon.

He was speaking as the chief guest at the observation of 25th World Sight Day organised by the National Programme for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment (NPCB and VI), in association with the National Health Mission (NHM) and the Directorate of Health Services, Manipur at Classic Grande, Chingmeirong.

The event, focusing on the theme ‘Love your eyes, kids’ highlighted the importance of children’s eye health and the role of parents and educators in maintaining it.

Reflecting on the theme, he emphasised that children often lack awareness about their own eyesight, making it essential for parents and teachers to stay vigilant.

Advertisement

He pointed out that teachers, in particular, have a unique opportunity to observe signs of potential eye problems in their students’ classwork.

He discussed the impact of increased screen time on eye health in today’s digital age. “Being in a digital world, our screen time is ever-increasing. From the moment we wake up till when we go to bed, we are glued to our screens, which strains our eyes and affects our vision,” he stated.

He warned that excessive screen time may lead to what some are calling the next major health crisis—a ‘digital pandemic’ caused by prolonged exposure to screens. He explained that this increase in screen use, especially among children, not only affects eyesight but also reduces physical activity, impacting their overall health.

He urged families and communities to support outdoor activities and reduce screen time for improved eye health and well-being.

He stressed the importance of regular eye check-ups and noted that parents play a key role in preventive care for their children. He urged parents to adopt responsible screen time management and prioritize routine eye examinations.

Advertisement

Further addressing the status of cataract cases in Manipur, he noted a high prevalence of cataracts in the state. He shared that for the year 2022-2023, the target of 5,000 cataract surgeries was nearly achieved, reaching 80-90 per cent completion. For 2024-2025, a target of 7,000 surgeries has been set, with 45 per cent achieved so far.

Ranjan expressed confidence in reaching an 80-90 per cent completion rate again this year, with a vision for a future free of cataract issues.

In his concluding remarks, he encouraged the public to make use of various government health programs, covering areas such as oral health, heart disease, tuberculosis, and hepatitis, to ensure comprehensive healthcare for all.

A significant highlight of the event was the distribution of spectacles to senior citizens and school children, aligning with the day’s theme of accessible eye care.

The programme was also attended by key officials, including Hungyo Worshang, special secretary health, Manipur, Dr O Sanahanbi Devi, Director of Health Services, Government of Manipur; and Dr M Dinesh Singh, State Mission Director, NHM, Manipur, among others.
 

Advertisement

First published:

Tags:

sapam ranjanWorld Sight Dayeye carevision correctionVisual Impairment

IFP Bureau

IFP Bureau

IMPHAL, Manipur

Advertisement

Top Stories

Loading data...
Advertisement

IFP Exclusive

Loading data...