World Sight Day is observed on the second Thursday of October every year, and it serves as a global reminder of the importance of eye health and vision care, this year’s theme is ‘’Love Your Eyes at Work’’ as stated by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB). This day helps us to not only appreciate the gift of sight but also to consider ways of protecting our eyes, especially in the workplace where we spend a significant part of our lives. It is a global event aimed at raising awareness about prevention of blindness and vision impairment as well as advocating for universal access to eye care services. With millions of people around the world suffering from vision problems, World Sight Day plays a crucial role in ensuring that eye health services and public awareness to improve access to services are prioritized.
Why ‘Eye Health at Work’ matters:
- Vision is Essential for Work: In every profession, good vision is essential and has been found to increase productivity by 22%. This is necessary for those who work in offices and use computers regularly. It also includes those who operate various machines and social/scientific researchers. Our jobs often rely heavily on our ability to see clearly.
- Productivity and Safety: Poor eye health can lead to decreased productivity and increased workplace accidents. Clear vision is vital for completing tasks accurately and safely.
- Preventing Eye Strain: Prolonged screen time, common in many professions, can lead to eye strain, dry eyes, and other vision-related issues. Prioritizing eye health can prevent these problems.
Practical Tips for Loving Your Eyes at Work
- Regular Eye Check-ups: Schedule regular eye examinations to detect and address any vision issues early. This is particularly crucial if your job involves extensive screen time.
- Ergonomic Workspace: Ensure your workspace is ergonomically designed. Your computer screen should be at eye level, and you should have proper lighting to reduce glare.
- Take Breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule recommended by IAPB. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This reduces eye strain.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink enough water to keep your eyes and body hydrated. Dehydration can lead to dry eyes.
- Protective Eyewear: If your work involves exposure to hazards like chemicals or flying particles, wear appropriate protective eyewear.
- Balanced Diet: A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can support eye health. Foods like carrots, spinach, and fish are excellent choices.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise improves blood circulation, which benefits your eyes. It can also help manage conditions like diabetes, which can affect eye health.
- Screen Settings: Adjust the brightness, contrast, and font size on your screen to make reading and working more comfortable.