World Optometry Day puts a focus on improving eye-care at home

As more businesses move to a hybrid work from home model, a Toowoomba Optometrist is encouraging locals to better look after their eyes.

Dr Hugh Bradshaw, Optometrist at Heron Eyecare and Fellow of the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control said short-sightedness is on the rise all over the world.

“Based on current trends, half the world’s population will be short-sighted by 2050 which is a staggering 5 billion people,” said Dr Bradshaw.

“When people work from home they are often looking at laptops or smaller screens, which is why it’s so important to prioritise your pupils.”

World Optometry Day is March 23 and the day is aimed at raising awareness of eye conditions such as Myopia.

Myopia results in poor vision in the distance and is also known as near-sightedness because myopic people can still see things clearly that are close.

Dr Bradshaw said the condition is caused by a mix of genetic and environmental factors causing the eye to grow longer, but there are steps that can be taken to prevent serious eye diseases caused by myopia by slowing down or stabilising the condition.

“My top three tips this World Optometry Day are to take regular screen breaks, spend two hours outside each day and get an eye test.”

“We know that early diagnosis and intervention is the key to slowing the progression of myopia,” said Dr Bradshaw.

Jaden Frame, General Manager of TSBE Health is urging businesses not to overlook the importance of good eye care.

“It’s great to have such a technologically advanced eye health care practice in Toowoomba, with Optometrists who care about reducing serious eye issues for residents,” he said.

Find out more about the prevention of myopia at Heron Eyecare’s website: www.heroneyecare.com.au