Eye tests, glasses could double lifetime earnings for Kenyan children

Nairobi, Kenya – A straightforward eye examination and the provision of corrective glasses can substantially enhance the educational achievements and future income potential of Kenyan children, according to recent research on childhood vision. The International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) study reveals that uncorrected refractive error (URE) is the primary cause of vision impairment in Kenyan children.

URE encompasses nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, which can result in blurred or uneven vision. This condition is responsible for 24,959 cumulative years of lost schooling annually in Kenya, with affected children absorbing only half the amount of learning compared to their peers with clear vision.

The IAPB posits that diagnosing and rectifying URE at around the age of five with high-quality glasses could potentially boost a child's lifetime earnings in Kenya by up to 125 percent. These findings are part of a broader global study encompassing 23 countries, suggesting that addressing childhood vision problems could potentially double lifetime earnings worldwide.

IAPB is urging parents to prioritize eye tests when children return to school, especially when there are indications of vision difficulties such as trouble seeing the board, reading, or concentrating in class.

Peter Holland, IAPB CEO, stated, "A simple eye test and glasses could be one of the best investments a parent can make for their child’s future." The organization acknowledges that it may not be feasible for some parents to arrange and afford eye tests and glasses, emphasizing the need for governments to ensure every child has access to sight tests and glasses.

To raise awareness of children's eye health, IAPB has launched a "Love Your Eyes back-to-school" campaign, which includes educational materials for school assemblies, classroom activities, and resources for children to share with parents and caregivers. Sumrana Yasmin, Sightsavers Technical Director for Inclusive Health, emphasized that improving access to eye care could enable children to learn and reach their full potential.

"Every child deserves the chance to see, learn, and thrive, and supporting child eye care is a smart decision," she added.

The campaign precedes the inaugural Global Summit for Eye Health, set to take place on November 2 in Antigua and Barbuda, where governments and partners are expected to pledge commitments to enhance access to eye care services. IAPB, a coalition of over 250 organizations operating in more than 100 countries, aims to improve access to eye health services.