Most eye care services are also located in urban areas , creating huge inequities , especially in low- and middle-income countries like Malaysia
preventing the development of diabetic retinopathy ,” �r Hafi� said .
But while being healthy is beneficial , people should still go for regular screening if they want to avoid vision impairment from treatable or preventable conditions , which is why comprehensive eye examinations remain crucial for early detection and management of potential eye issues , even in individuals leading healthy lifestyles .
This means people without eye conditions or vision problems should consult an optometrist or ophthalmologist every one to two years . Those affected by eye conditions or at a higher risk for them , such as diabetics and people with a family history of eye disease , may require more frequent check-ups .
�Some conditions , like glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration , can have a genetic component . If there ’ s a family history of certain eye diseases , inform your eye care professional , as this may in�uence the fre�uency and type of screenings , � he advised .
Warning signs that warrant a consultation with a doctor include changes in vision , such as blurriness , and double vision as well as difficulty seeing at night and persistent eye redness , pain , or discomfort .
Public health measures to improve eye care Multiple interventions are needed to tackle the billions of preventable vision loss cases around the world . For example , widening access to eye care services is particularly urgent , especially in the rural areas of lowand middle-income countries .
Equipment to manage eye conditions is often not available in many of these countries , while eye care is frequently not included in health insurance schemes , making diagnosis and treatment unaffordable for many people , according to the WHO ’ s Package of eye care interventions . Most eye care services are also located in urban areas , creating huge inequities between those who can access the services and those who simply can ’ t because they live far from medical centres .
“ Deploying increased medical resources is critical , especially in low- and middle-income countries like Malaysia . This includes establishing and strengthening eye care facilities in underserved areas , providing essential e�uipment , and ensuring a sufficient number of skilled eye care professionals . Mobile eye clinics and telemedicine initiatives can also help reach remote communities , facilitating early detection and intervention , � argues �r Hafi� .
�alaysia offers a good e�ample of how to creatively
GlobalHealthAsiaPacific . com ISSUE 6 | 2023
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