Health / AIIMS Bhubaneswar Raises Alarm Over Growing Eye Problems Among Youth

Bhubaneswar, Oct 13: Highlighting the growing burden of preventable vision disorders, the Department of Ophthalmology at AIIMS Bhubaneswar has observed World Sight Day on Thursday with a series of awareness and community outreach activities, including a walkathon aimed at promoting eye health and universal access to quality eye care.

Speaking on the occasion, AIIMS Bhubaneswar Executive Director Ashutosh Biswas expressed concern over the rising incidence of eye-related problems among young people, particularly refractive errors and computer vision syndrome, driven largely by prolonged screen exposure and poor visual habits.

"Young people are increasingly affected by refractive errors and computer vision syndrome. Prolonged screen exposure, inadequate visual hygiene and neglect of early symptoms can adversely affect eye health," Biswas said.

According to AIIMS Bhubaneswar, the Department of Ophthalmology attends to approximately 230-250 patients daily, recording a monthly footfall of around 5,000-6,000 patients. Among the most common eye conditions reported are refractive errors, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and computer vision syndrome.

Experts at the institute stressed that many of these conditions, if left undiagnosed or untreated, could result in severe visual impairment or even blindness. However, timely diagnosis, regular screening and appropriate treatment can help prevent or effectively manage a large proportion of vision-related disorders.

The awareness programme focused on encouraging healthy visual practices, particularly among students and young professionals who spend long hours on digital devices. Participants were advised to take regular breaks during screen use, maintain proper visual hygiene, undergo periodic eye examinations and seek medical attention whenever they experience vision-related symptoms.
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A walkathon was organised as part of the observance to spread awareness about the importance of eye health and equitable access to eye care services. The event conveyed the global World Sight Day message, "Love Your Eyes", emphasising the need to make eye care accessible, available and affordable for everyone.

Dean Dillip Kumar Parida, Medical Superintendent Prabhas Ranjan Tripathy, Deputy Director (Administration) Lt. Col. Abhijit Sarkar, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology Sucheta Parija, along with faculty members Sandip Sahu, Priyadarsini Mishra, Bijnya B. Panda and Bruttendu Moharana were, among others, present on the occasion.