Government Medical College, Srinagar Marks World Sight Day with Comprehensive Eye Care Campaign

In recognition of World Sight Day 2024, the Ophthalmology Department, Government Medical College, Srinagar, hosted a CME in line with this year’s theme “Children, Love Your Eyes.” The CME aimed at understanding the causes and burden of Childhood Blindness, and the need for a comprehensive approach and timely interventions to help alleviate the same. The event was held under the patronage of Dr Iffat Hassan Shah, Principal and Dean, GMC Srinagar and was graced by the presence of Prof. Junaid S.Wani ( HOD Ophthalmology) and the esteemed faculty members of the Department of Ophthalmology. The CME was attended by all the Senior Residents and Postgraduate students of the department.

     The CME began with a talk on An Overview of Childhood Blindness by Dr Rakshan Reyaz, Senior Resident, Ophthalmology, who discussed the epidemiology, etiology and the burden of Childhood Blindness. Dr Shifa Shafat, Resident, Ophthalmology highlighted importance of Refractive Errors in Children and its management. The seminar ended with a take home message by Dr Shahnawaz Shafi, Associate Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, who emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and regular eye check-ups in preventing avoidable childhood blindness.

     The  Department of Ophthalmology, Government Medical College encourages everyone to care for their eyes, urging regular check-ups and attention to eye health. It also reemphasises that addressing childhood blindness requires a comprehensive approach that includes preventive healthcare, early treatment, and improving access to education and rehabilitation services. With timely interventions many cases of childhood blindness can be prevented and managed, improving the quality of life for millions of children worldwide.