World Sight Day 2017: Learn More About "Avoidable Blindness" and Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Examination. World Sight Day is an international day of awareness held annually to focus global attention on blindness and vision impairment.

The theme "Avoidable Blindness" highlights a critical fact: up to 80% of all vision impairment can be prevented or cured. This staggering statistic should motivate us all to take action and prioritize our eye health.

What is Avoidable Blindness?

Avoidable blindness includes conditions that are either preventable or treatable. Preventable blindness results from conditions that could have been avoided through public health measures, such as proper nutrition and hygiene. Treatable blindness includes conditions like cataracts, which can be corrected through surgery.

Common Causes of Avoidable Blindness:

**Cataracts**: The leading cause of blindness worldwide, cataracts cloud the eye's natural lens. Modern cataract surgery is safe, effective, and can restore vision in less than 20 minutes.

**Uncorrected Refractive Errors**: Millions of people worldwide live with blurred vision simply because they don't have access to eyeglasses or contact lenses. A simple eye examination and prescription can solve this problem.

**Glaucoma**: While glaucoma damage cannot be reversed, early detection and treatment can slow or stop its progression. Regular eye exams are essential for detecting this "silent thief of sight."

**Diabetic Retinopathy**: People with diabetes are at risk of developing diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to blindness if not detected and treated early. Regular eye examinations and good blood sugar control can prevent this complication.

**Trachoma**: This infectious disease, caused by poor hygiene conditions, remains a leading cause of blindness in developing countries but is entirely preventable with improved sanitation and access to treatment.

What Can You Do?

1. Schedule regular comprehensive eye examinations 2. Protect your eyes from injury and UV damage 3. Manage health conditions that can affect your eyes, such as diabetes and high blood pressure 4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and exercise 5. Spread awareness about the importance of eye health in your community

This World Sight Day, join us in the fight against avoidable blindness. Schedule your comprehensive eye examination today and encourage your loved ones to do the same. Together, we can work towards a world where no one suffers from preventable vision loss.