Recent eye screenings conducted in schools across the Central Division of Fiji revealed that less than 10% of children screened showed vision problems. This initiative was part of a free eye screening program run by a team of specialists from the US and the Sri Satya Sai Sanjeevani Medical Centre. Over four days, the team, led by Dr. Nitin Shah, a professor from Loma Linda University in California, successfully screened 18,517 children and teachers across more than 30 schools.
Dr. Shah expressed satisfaction with the results, noting that the vision health of the children seems quite good. He attributed this positive outcome partly to their dietary habits and reduced screen time, suggesting that less exposure to screens may contribute to better eye health.
In addition to vision screenings, many children received glasses on-site, although some with more complex prescriptions were noted to require follow-up arrangements to receive their glasses later.
The findings resonate with ongoing efforts in Fiji to enhance community access to eye care. Similar initiatives, such as those by the Island Eye Clinic and New Vision of Fiji, aim to provide free eye clinics throughout the country, addressing the critical need for eye health services, particularly in underserved areas.
This trend emphasizes a collective movement towards better healthcare access in Fiji, highlighting the importance of regular eye examinations and encouraging families to prioritize eye health. With ongoing support from local and international medical teams, the future looks optimistic for improving eye health outcomes in the region.
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