The World Health Organization (WHO) has released an alarming report predicting a dramatic increase in the need for eye care in the near future. At the same time, the report shows that around 2.2 billion people worldwide already experience visual impairment – ​​and about half of these cases could be prevented, according to the report.

“Some people don’t give their eyes the attention they deserve, they don’t have regular eye exams. “This reduces the chance that conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma or age-related macular degeneration can be detected early,” he explained to the server. Independent ophthalmologist Jørn Slot Jørgensen.

“If detected and treated early, many conditions can be managed in such a way that vision does not deteriorate significantly,” Jørgensen continues.

As the expert added, the coronavirus pandemic also played a small role in this. “With the shift to working from home, people are spending more time in front of computer screens and other devices, both for work and leisure. At the same time, prioritizing the quality of vision should be central to such behavior,” he added.

Together with other experts, he then drew attention to the most common diseases that we ourselves contribute to the fact that our vision deteriorates more significantly and rapidly.

Prevention is important, including eye health. It is recommended for everyone to undergo an examination at least once every two years. As mentioned, early detection of any problems, which can be aided by regular check-ups, is essential to getting the best treatment.

Widespread modern equipment improves and makes life easier in many ways, but its radiation certainly does not benefit the eyes.

“Eye strain from excessive digital use causes typical symptoms such as dry eyes, headaches or blurred vision,” explains Jørgensen.

Another unpleasant factor that harms our eyes is sunlight. Protection against it is relatively simple, all you need is high-quality sunglasses. But there are still many people who don’t use it.

“Improper diet and a lack of important nutrients such as vitamins A, C and E, as well as minerals such as zinc, can seriously damage eye health. “Therefore, it is best to eat a balanced diet rich in leafy and other vegetables, colorful fruits and sources of omega-3 acids,” explains Jørgensen.

If you smoke, it is better for your general health, but also for the health of your eyes, stop as soon as possible. “Smoking is a controllable factor that can reduce the risk of certain eye diseases,” added ophthalmologist Evelyn Mensah.

Mensah further pointed out that there is a fairly widespread opinion among the public that frequent wearing of prescription glasses, even weak ones, will worsen vision. “This idea is wrong. When someone prescribes you glasses, there must be a reason. If you don’t wear them, you risk headaches and vision problems.”

Working or reading in poor lighting can also cause vision problems.