Blindness among children is of much concern world-wide. The percentage of blind children is on the increase. The causes for blindness among children differ from adults. More expertise is required for treating such children. As compared to adults, children require long-term follow up after surgery, to prevent “lazy eyes” and also to handle complications. The issues are different. Every child has the right to best treatment.
The number of blind children in the world is on the increase, particularly in the developing countries. Community- based interventions are required. The involvement and understanding of parents are essential. Most children are born blind or become blind by the fifth year. There are less blind children in affluent countries as compared to poorer nations. What are the causes of child blindness?
Causes of Child- Blindness
- Corneal scarring in poorer countries. This is due to deficiency in Vitamin A and measles
- Cataract
- Retinopathy in rich and mid-level income countries as well as in some parts of Asia
- Glaucoma
- Refractive errors
- Low vision
Efforts To Cure Child-Blindness- World Wide
- Efforts are on to eliminate Vitamin A deficiency. UNICEF has set up a target of achieving this by 2010
- Better measles immunization coverage
- Child- care centers are being set up. Training is being provided in pediatric ophthalmology, particularly in poorer nations.
Problems Faced in Eradication Efforts
- Lack of awareness among parents as well as in the community about the preventive measures
- Insufficient data about the causes of blindness in children
- Lack of specialized services in ophthalmology
- Fragmented pediatric eye-care services
Much concern has been expressed all over the world to help blind children. Respective countries are facing problems, both financial and infrastructure facilities, but efforts are on to provide better care. Parents also have to help a blind child cope up with his or her physical disability.
