President of Nigerian Optometric Association NOA Dr Damian Echendu, has said that no fewer than forty- five million persons will go blind by 2020 globally.

Echendu stated this at a press briefing held yesterday in Abuja.
He said, “persons above 40 years should seek eye care to avoid sudden blindness and some avoidable conditions like glaucoma and refractive error.

He said, “Many eye problem don’t come with any sign or symptoms, Some even have trauma which affect their eyes, we also have some cases that many Communities do not have optometrist,’’
Echendu said in spite of the contributions of the optometric profession to Nigerians ,it is surprising that the profession was still shortchanged due to man-made obstacles, he called on the Federal Government to include optometry department in public Health Sector.

“Up till now, there is no optometry department in both State and Federal Ministries of Health and other tertiary healthcare institutions in Nigeria,’’ he said.
Echendu said the recent circular by the Ministry for the establishment of optometry unit in Federal Health Institutions was disregarded.

He said Optometry as a profession, was submerged under Ophthalmology department in Public healthcare institutions not allowing them to practice what they had learnt in the University as provided by law.
Echendu said the association would be having its 39th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and scientific conference slated for 1st to 4th of July.

The meeting will also focus on professional reevaluation and renewal of commitment to providing best care for the vision and eye care.
“Activities that will be of immense benefit to the public among other, free eye and vision screening at Ginshiri community in Abuja
“An estimated of 500 persons at Gishiri community in Abuja will benefit from the free eye clinic as they will be given drugs and reading glasses,’’ he said.