On September 13, 2024, the outreach team from Northern Community Eye Hospital met Adamu Muniru during a screening exercise in Zangballung-Bihi. At the time, Adamu could only perceive light in both eyes, severely impacting her ability to care for herself and her family, especially her infant. She relied heavily on her husband and relatives for daily support.
Adamu was diagnosed with cataracts and scheduled for surgery, which was successfully performed at the hospital on September 19, 2024. Just one day after the operation, Adamu’s vision had improved remarkably, with a visual acuity of 6/24 in both eyes.
Overwhelmed with joy, she expressed, “I can see my baby very well today!” Having been blind for two years, Adamu explained that she didn’t seek treatment earlier because she was unaware that her condition was treatable.
Her message to others facing similar struggles is clear: “Seek help. Go to the hospital and get your eyes examined.”
Adamu’s story is a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact of eye care and the importance of outreach programs that bring vital services to underserved communities.
As a parent, ensuring the health and well-being of your child is a top priority. While regular checkups with the pediatrician are common, eye health is sometimes overlooked. Yet, good vision is crucial for a child’s development, affecting everything from learning to social interactions. This article will guide you through the essentials of children’s eye health, from recognizing early signs of vision problems to maintaining healthy eyes throughout childhood.
1. The Importance of Early Eye Exams
Children’s eyes develop rapidly in their early years, and early detection of vision issues is key to addressing potential problems before they impact a child’s development. The American Optometric Association recommends that children have their first comprehensive eye exam at 6 months old, another at 3 years, and then annually after starting school.
2. Common Vision Problems in Children
Several vision issues can affect children. Here are some of the most common:
Refractive Errors: These include myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism, where the eye does not focus light correctly. These conditions can usually be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.
Amblyopia (Lazy Eye): This occurs when one eye is weaker than the other, leading to poor vision in the affected eye. Early treatment, such as patching the stronger eye, is essential to improve vision in the weaker eye.
Strabismus (Crossed Eyes): This is when the eyes do not align properly. It can lead to amblyopia if left untreated. Treatment may include glasses, eye exercises, or surgery.
Convergence Insufficiency: This condition makes it difficult for a child to focus on nearby objects, potentially causing headaches and reading difficulties.
3. Signs Your Child May Have a Vision Problem
Children may not always be able to articulate that they have a vision issue, so it’s important for parents to watch for signs such as:
Squinting or tilting their head to see better
Holding objects very close to their face
Frequent headaches or eye rubbing
Difficulty concentrating or reading
Sitting too close to the TV
Avoiding activities that require good vision, like reading or playing games
If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to schedule an eye exam with a pediatric optometrist or ophthalmologist.
4. The Impact of Screen Time on Children’s Eyes
In today’s digital age, children are exposed to screens more than ever. Excessive screen time can lead to digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. Symptoms include dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, and difficulty focusing. To minimize the impact, encourage your child to follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away.
5. Tips for Maintaining Healthy Vision in Children
Balanced Diet: Ensure your child eats a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly those high in vitamins A, C, and E, which are essential for eye health.
Adequate Lighting: Make sure your child has proper lighting when reading or doing homework to avoid eye strain.
Outdoor Play: Encourage outdoor activities to reduce the risk of myopia, as studies show that spending time outside can help protect against nearsightedness.
Protective Eyewear: For children involved in sports, ensure they wear protective eyewear to prevent eye injuries.
Sunglasses: Protect your child’s eyes from harmful UV rays with sunglasses when they’re outdoors.
6. When to Seek Professional Help
Regular eye exams are crucial, but you should also seek immediate professional help if your child experiences:
Sudden vision loss or blurred vision
Eye pain or redness that doesn’t go away
A white pupil instead of black, which could be a sign of serious conditions like retinoblastoma
7. The Role of Schools in Eye Health
Many schools conduct basic vision screenings, but these should not replace comprehensive eye exams. Schools can also play a role by ensuring classrooms are well-lit and promoting good habits like taking breaks during screen time.
Conclusion
Your child’s vision is a vital part of their overall health and development. By staying vigilant and proactive, you can help ensure they have the best possible vision as they grow. Regular eye exams, a healthy lifestyle, and prompt attention to any signs of trouble are key to maintaining healthy eyes for your child.
If you have any concerns about your child’s vision or eye health, don’t hesitate to contact yNorthern Community Eye Hospital for advice and a comprehensive eye exam.
In July 2024, Northern Community Eye Hospital (NCEH) had the privilege of hosting Dr. Ravi and Dr. Uma, two distinguished ophthalmologists from Mysore, Karnataka State, India. Dr. Ravi, a vitreoretinal surgeon and pediatric specialist, and his wife, Dr. Uma, a general ophthalmologist, embarked on their 24th mission to developing countries, and we were honored they chose our facility for their service.
During their visit, Dr. Ravi and Dr. Uma performed surgeries on 17 babies and children, addressing conditions such as congenital cataract, squint, and trauma. They also operated on 53 adult eyes, primarily focusing on cataract surgeries. On Thursday, they were joined by Dr. Shirish Shirshat, an Indian ophthalmologist who has been practicing in Ghana for many years.
Beyond their surgical contributions, Dr. Ravi, Dr. Uma, and Dr. Shirish provided invaluable training in surgical techniques and offered numerous suggestions and advice on managing our hospital more effectively. As dedicated Rotarians with over 30 years of service, they also introduced us to the Rotary system, highlighting the potential benefits of future collaboration.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Ravi, Dr. Uma, Dr. Shirish, and the Rotary Club for their selfless volunteering and support. Their visit has left a lasting impact on our hospital and community.
Mr. Sulemana Alhassan, a 35-year-old resident of Savelugu Municipal in the Northern Region of Ghana, found his life dramatically altered by cataracts. Despite his youth and strength, he became vulnerable, relying heavily on family, friends, and the broader community for support over the course of a year and several months. His visual acuity was reduced to mere perception of light (PL) in both eyes, rendering him blind and dependent.Mr. Sulemana’s condition exemplified the profound impact that untreated cataracts can have, stripping individuals of their independence and drastically affecting their quality of life. However, his story took a hopeful turn when he encountered the Northern Community Eye Hospital Outreach team.On one fateful day, the Outreach team visited his community as part of their mission to identify and treat cataract cases. Mr. Sulemana seized this opportunity, hopeful that he might regain his sight. Through the Northern Community Eye Hospital Outreach intervention program, he underwent cataract surgery on both eyes.The first surgery was performed on his right eye. When the bandage was removed, Mr. Sulemana experienced a profound transformation. The ability to see the world again filled him with indescribable joy and gratitude. This moment was so powerful that words could hardly capture the extent of his happiness and relief. It was a moment that marked the beginning of his journey back to independence.With the success of the first surgery, Mr. Sulemana was prepped for the operation on his second eye. The anticipation of regaining full vision fueled his hope and determination. The Outreach team’s expertise and care ensured that the second surgery was as successful as the first.Mr. Sulemana’s story is a testament to the life-changing power of cataract surgery. His journey from darkness to light underscores the critical importance of accessible eye care services, particularly in underserved regions. It also highlights the transformative impact of the Northern Community Eye Hospital’s Outreach program.At the Northern Community Eye Hospital, we are dedicated to changing lives through cataract surgeries. We believe that sight is not just a sensory experience but a vital aspect of a fulfilling life. By restoring vision, we are empowering individuals like Mr. Sulemana to reclaim their independence and improve their quality of life.Our mission is clear: sight is life. We are committed to bringing this essential service to as many people as possible, ensuring that no one has to endure the debilitating effects of cataracts. Mr. Sulemana Alhassan’s story is just one of many, and we are determined to create many more success stories through our ongoing efforts.Northern Community Eye Hospital – because we believe in the power of vision.
On June 22, 2024, the Northern Community Eye Hospital achieved a remarkable milestone by restoring vision to 39 residents from the communities of Sognaayili, Gbolo-Kpalsi, Shishagu, and Kulnyevila. This was made possible through the hospital’s dedicated outreach intervention program, aimed at providing much-needed eye care services to underserved areas.In these communities, many elderly individuals have been suffering from vision problems, often unaware that some of their vision loss is reversible. Due to a lack of resources and access to proper medical care, these individuals have endured significant challenges, impacting their quality of life and independence.The outreach program provided comprehensive eye screenings, identifying those with cataracts and other treatable conditions. With a team of skilled surgeons and modern medical facilities, the Northern Community Eye Hospital successfully performed surgeries to restore sight to these 39 residents.The success of these surgeries was evident immediately. The reactions of the patients, who could see much better just one day post-operation, were filled with overwhelming joy and excitement. For many, it was a life-changing experience, allowing them to regain independence and reconnect with the world around them.This initiative highlights the critical importance of outreach programs in bringing essential healthcare services to those in need. It also underscores the mission of the Northern Community Eye Hospital to improve lives through the gift of sight.As we celebrate this success, we are reminded that sight is not just a sense; it is a vital part of life. The Northern Community Eye Hospital remains committed to its vision of a world where everyone can see clearly and live fully.Northern Community Eye Hospital – because we believe in the power of vision.
Memunatu Fuseini, a resident of Kulnyevila in the Tamale Metropolis, has been living with severe visual impairment (VR-PL and VL-HM) for over a year. Relying on her loving little granddaughter for assistance, even for the simplest tasks like going outside or answering nature’s call, has become a part of her daily life.On June 20, 2024, a beacon of hope arrived in Kulnyevila. The Northern Community Eye Hospital Outreach Screening Team visited the community to identify and address cataract cases. Mma Memunatu, unable to afford a hospital visit and unaware of potential treatments, seized this opportunity for a screening.Her visual impairment not only impacted her life but also heavily affected her granddaughter, who often missed school to assist her grandmother.On June 22, 2024, Mma Memunatu underwent cataract surgery through the Northern Community Eye Hospital Outreach intervention program. Miraculously, she regained her sight, with her vision improving to VR-6/36 and VL-6/60 just one day post-operation. We are hopeful that her vision will continue to improve over the coming week.The joy and excitement radiating from Mma Memunatu Fuseini is indescribable. This transformation is a testament to the belief that sight truly is life.Northern Community Eye Hospital – because we believe in the power of vision.
The Northern Community Eye Hospital has been making significant strides in restoring sight to the people of Janga. Recently, the hospital’s dedicated screening team assessed a total of 278 individuals, identifying 54 patients in need of cataract surgery, including 28 bilateral cases. These comprehensive screenings were crucial in pinpointing those whose vision had been compromised, some of whom had been living in darkness for 1, 2, 3, or even more years.
On the 4th and 5th of May, the hospital successfully performed cataract surgeries on all 54 patients, effectively restoring their sight. The surgeries marked a profound transformation for these individuals, many of whom had faced significant challenges due to their impaired vision. The joy and relief experienced by the patients and their families were immeasurable, as the ability to see clearly once again opened up new possibilities and improved their quality of life.
The Northern Community Eye Hospital remains steadfast in its mission to provide essential eye care services to underserved communities, continually demonstrating that sight is not just a privilege but a fundamental right. Through their tireless efforts, NCEH is truly making a difference, one surgery at a time.
The inspiring story of Mma Alhassan-Sana from Kumbungu highlights the life-changing impact of the Northern Community Eye Hospital’s outreach intervention. Mma Alhassan-Sana had been living in complete darkness, blind in both eyes, which severely impacted her quality of life and independence. Her daily existence was filled with immense challenges, relying heavily on the assistance of family and friends for even the simplest of tasks.
However, her life took a remarkable turn when she became a beneficiary of the Northern Community Eye Hospital’s outreach program. The dedicated medical team at the hospital identified her condition and scheduled her for surgery. Through their expert care and advanced surgical techniques, Mma Alhassan-Sana’s sight was successfully restored.
The moment she opened her eyes and saw the world clearly for the first time in years was nothing short of miraculous. Her joy and gratitude knew no bounds, as she could now resume activities she once thought were lost forever. The ability to see her loved ones, navigate her surroundings independently, and engage fully in her community brought a renewed sense of hope and purpose to her life.
Mma Alhassan-Sana’s story is a testament to the profound difference that the Northern Community Eye Hospital is making in the lives of those they serve. By providing critical eye care services to the underserved, they are not only restoring sight but also transforming lives. At Northern Community Eye Hospital, we hold firmly to the belief that sight is life, and we are committed to bringing light and vision to those in need.
On May 7th, the Northern Community Eye Hospital conducted cataract surgeries for residents of Gurugu in the Sagnarigu municipality. Out of 72 individuals aged 40 and above who were screened, 14 were scheduled for surgery, and 13 underwent the procedure. Pre-surgery vision levels ranged from 6/60, CF@1-5, HM, to PL. Post-surgery, patients experienced significant improvements, with vision levels ranging from 6/60 to 6/18, PL to 6/18, and 6/12. The joy and excitement were indescribable. At Northern Community Eye Hospital, we believe sight is life.
In February, Northern Community Eye Hospital had the privilege of hosting Dr. Karl Holzinger, a highly experienced American ophthalmologist renowned for his dedication to eye care in developing nations. Over the course of two weeks, Dr. Holzinger actively engaged in patient consultations, conducted community screenings, and performed a remarkable total of 154 surgeries addressing cataracts and pterygium.
His expertise not only enriched our medical endeavors but also left a lasting impact on our community. Patients and staff alike were deeply moved by his compassionate approach and gentle demeanor, which made a significant difference in their experience. We are deeply grateful to See International for their generous provision of essential surgical supplies, empowering Dr. Holzinger to carry out his vital work with effectiveness and impact. Their unwavering support has played a crucial role in our mission to elevate vision care and positively impact lives.
