Health initiatives in Ecuador and Colombia target childhood visual health

In Ecuador, the Fundación Metrofraternidad reported 1,320 ophthalmological consultations and 92 surgeries between January and August 2026 as part of its Childhood Blindness Prevention Program. To facilitate early detection of visual issues in children and adolescents, the organization is launching a campaign in October offering consultations for USD 10. Specialists emphasize that early diagnosis of conditions such as amblyopia, pediatric glaucoma, and strabismus is critical to preventing irreversible damage.

In Colombia, the Bogotá District Administration is implementing measures to protect visual health, particularly among students. The Secretary of Education issued Resolution 1037 of 2026, which restricts the use of mobile phones and other screen devices in both public and private schools during the school day. While exceptions exist for health, emergencies, and inclusive education, the measure aims to reduce unnecessary screen exposure to prevent eye fatigue and dryness. Data from the Bogotá Health Observatory indicates that visual impairment accounted for approximately 5.5% of certified disabilities in the capital between 2020 and 2024.