Preventive eye exams could avoid 75% of visual impairments

According to the World Health Organization, 75% of visual impairments could be avoided through timely prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. In Brazil, data from the IBGE indicates that more than 6 million people live with some form of visual impairment.

Ophthalmologist Marcos Ávila, president of the Brazilian Council of Ophthalmology (CBO), warns against the dangerous misconception that eye care only requires a visit when vision problems arise. Many serious conditions, such as glaucoma, cataracts, retinal detachment, and diabetic retinopathy, can progress without symptoms in their early stages.

Currently, an estimated 1 million Brazilians have glaucoma, yet experts warn that approximately 70% of these cases remain undiagnosed due to the lack of initial symptoms. Routine examinations are essential for early detection and the permanent preservation of sight.