INABIE provides visual health services to 116,000 students

The National Institute of Student Welfare (INABIE) has provided visual health services to 116,269 students during the 2025-2026 school year. The program aims to detect vision difficulties that may hinder academic performance and learning.

Following medical evaluations, 5,499 students received corrective lenses, while others were referred for specialized consultations and treatments. The initiative also included 30 ophthalmic surgeries for students with complex conditions.

Evaluations are conducted primarily within educational centers to identify signs such as difficulty reading boards, headaches, or eye strain. Dr. Ana Zabala, head of Health at INABIE, noted that many children cannot identify or express their vision problems, making school-based assessments essential for detection and subsequent referral to optometry or ophthalmology services.