Abuja: Medical experts have cautioned against self-medication for eye problems, emphasising the importance of regular eye check-ups to prevent vision loss. They gave the advice at a Workshop on Eye-Health and its Relevance to Effective Journalism, organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Abuja Chapel with support from Sightsavers Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr Chidinma Udemezue, World Sight Week Chairperson and member of the FCT Nigerian Optometric Association, noted that many Nigerians suffer from preventable vision problems, with 24.3 million people struggling with various eye issues. Udemezue stressed that regular eye check-ups could help detect problems early, preventing complications that could lead to blindness. She highlighted the necessity of being proactive in eye care and seeking professional help when needed.
Similarly, Dr Chinedu Njezi, Chairman of the Nigerian Optometric Association, FCT, highlighted the importance of prioritising eye health. Njezi warned against using traditional remedies, such as applying human urine, breast milk, and other substances in the eyes, as these could cause more harm than good. He emphasised that the eyes are critical to overall health and should only be treated by licensed practitioners.
Njezi also pointed out that some diseases and ailments could be diagnosed during eye screening, making regular eye checks crucial for detecting and treating any vision impairment. He stressed the necessity of using prescribed eyeglasses to protect and correct eye defects, underscoring that eyeglasses are aids and do not spoil the eyes.
Earlier, Mr Mufutau Ojo, Editor-in-Chief of NAN, encouraged the workforce to prioritise their health as it is fundamental to their functionality and effective contribution to journalism. He urged journalists to take their health seriously and highlighted the importance of maintaining good health for optimal performance.
Mr Collins Yakubu-Hammer, Chairman of NUJ, NAN Abuja Chapel, noted that the workshop’s theme was pertinent, considering the critical role of eyesight in journalism. He stressed that poor eyesight could significantly impact a journalist’s performance and urged journalists to utilise the workshop’s benefits to improve their eye health.
Ms Evelyn Onyilo, President/Founder of the Initiative for Women’s Accelerated Development in Africa (INWOAD), emphasised the importance of good eyesight for journalists in effectively discharging their duties. She noted that good vision is essential for journalists as storytellers and chroniclers of time, shaping their actions and capabilities.
In the same vein, Ms Grace Ike, Chairperson of NUJ, FCT Council, emphasised the need for journalists to see clearly both literally and figuratively to enable accurate reporting and accountability. She encouraged journalists to prioritise eye health and adopt habits that protect their vision, as it is crucial for the accuracy and depth of journalism.
