Refractive errors most common eye condition in children – Ophthalmologist

Head of the Ophthalmology Department at the Georgetown Hospital Corporation, Dr. Shailendra Sugrim on Tuesday said that refractive errors are the most prevalent eye issue among children.
During a recent edition of “Guyana Today,” Dr. Sugrim, highlighted that refractive errors affect the eye’s ability to focus on objects, whether near or far. He further explained that these errors can be caused by irregularly shaped eyes, which affects how light enters and is interpreted by the eye. Some individuals may have better vision for objects up close, a condition known as nearsightedness or myopia. Conversely, others may see distant objects more clearly, a condition referred to as farsightedness or hyperopia.
He also said that astigmatism was identified as another common cause of refractive errors, this condition is where the cornea is not round but egg-shaped. This irregularity causes rays of light to focus in different directions.
Dr. Sugrim noted that these refractive errors can be corrected with spectacles or contact lenses however if not corrected at an early age amblyopia which causes the eye to have a dull vision. On this point he noted that the Government Eye testing and spectacles programme main aim is to correct refractive errors primarily in children.
“All three of these conditions, myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism is corrected with spectacles or contact lenses. The best or the easiest way to treat those conditions is with spectacles and then we have our optometrist that will examine the kids and determine what type of refractive error they have. Now, with regards to children and if you do not correct your refractive error at an early age with the spectacles, the child may end up having what we call a lazy eye or amblyopia and that eye has a dull vision,” he stated.
Meanwhile last month the government officially launched its eye-testing and spectacles programme, which will benefit thousands of vulnerable individuals. The programme will see these individuals accessing financial assistance from the government to get their eyes tested and outfitted with the required spectacles. Individuals under 18 years of age, and those over 65, will receive a $2,000 voucher for an eye test. If they require a spectacle, they will receive a $15,000 voucher to as a co-pay.
These eyecare vouchers are valid at Da Silva’s Optical, Miracle Vision Care, Regina’s Optical, Courts Optical, Optique Vision Care, Dr. Balwant Singh Hospital, Doobay-Gafoor Medical & Research Centre, Eye Max Optical, Bhagwan’s Optical, Optical Works, Mings Optical and Eye Care Guyana, among other facilities.