Brazil Highlights Vision Health on World Eye Health Day
On July 10, the World Health Organization’s World Eye Health Day was observed across Brazil, urging the public to prevent and treat eye diseases. According to the latest IBGE census, almost 8 million Brazilians report total blindness or severe visual difficulty, and the WHO estimates that about 80 % of visual‑impairment cases could be avoided with early diagnosis.
The leading causes of vision loss cited are cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and age‑related macular degeneration. Many conditions progress silently, as illustrated by administrator Alexandre de Menezes, who discovered a cataract at age 49 during a routine exam and regained clear sight after surgery.
Ophthalmologists stress regular eye examinations for all ages, especially for people with diabetes, hypertension or autoimmune disorders. Preventive habits include avoiding self‑medication, using UV‑protective sunglasses, and taking regular breaks from screens. The “20‑20‑20” rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 seconds at something 6 metres away) and limiting daily screen time for children are recommended to curb digital eye strain and the rising incidence of myopia, which has surged by more than 35 % among Brazilian youth in the past decade. Specialists also warn against indiscriminate use of vasoconstrictor eye drops, advising that lubricating drops are safe for routine use.
In the state of Goiás, authorities have reinforced legislation prohibiting non‑medical professionals from conducting eye exams, underscoring the need for qualified ophthalmologists to detect serious conditions such as glaucoma or advanced cataract.