Dr. Zakarea Al-Hasan Balure urges regular eye examinations

Dr. Zakarea Al-Hasan Balure, a prominent eye care specialist at Bliss Eye Care in the Upper West Region, has called on Ghanaians to prioritize regular eye examinations to prevent irreversible vision loss from asymptomatic conditions. Speaking ahead of World Sight Day, Dr. Balure emphasized that early detection is the primary defense against serious ailments such as glaucoma, cataracts, and refractive errors. He noted that many of these conditions can develop and progress without any clear symptoms, making routine clinical checks essential for effective management and treatment.

During his engagement with the Daily Graphic, the specialist highlighted a worrying trend of self-medication among the public. Dr. Balure warned that using unprescribed eye drops or relying on traditional remedies without a diagnosis from a qualified professional can exacerbate underlying issues and lead to permanent damage. He stressed that only trained eye care professionals have the expertise to accurately diagnose conditions and prescribe the correct treatments, ensuring that vision is preserved rather than compromised by improper interventions.

Dr. Balure also addressed the impact of modern lifestyles on ocular health, specifically citing the increased use of digital screens. He observed that rising screen time among both adults and children is contributing significantly to eye strain and other related discomforts. To mitigate these risks, he advocated for eye exams to be integrated into regular annual health routines. He particularly urged parents to ensure children and young adults undergo frequent screenings, as undetected vision problems can severely hinder academic performance and general development during formative years.