By Ebele Egoh
Dr Ifeanyi Obi of Anambra State Eye Center Nise has observed that March is globally recognized as Save Your Sight Month.
Dr. Obi, during an interview in his office at Nise to mark save your sight month, said that Save your sight month is a time set aside to remind individuals, families, and institutions that vision is precious and once lost, it may never be regained.
Much of the focus he noted during this period is on glaucoma, a condition many people have heard about but few truly understand.
He said that glaucoma is often described as the “silent thief of sight.” The name is fitting. It progresses quietly, without pain, redness, or dramatic warning signs. A person can go about daily life—working, driving, reading—unaware that gradual damage is occurring to the optic nerve. By the time vision changes become noticeable, the loss is often permanent.
Dr Obi said that according to the World Health Organization (WHO), glaucoma remains one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. The most common type, Primary open-angle glaucoma, develops slowly over time.
He recommended regular comprehensive eye examinations as the only reliable way to detect it early.
He noticed that While discussions about glaucoma often take place in clinics and community outreaches, there is another important setting that deserves attention: the workplace.
‘”For many adults, the workplace is where a significant portion of life is spent. It is where productivity happens, where careers are built, and where livelihoods are secured. Yet, eye health is rarely integrated into workplace wellness conversations.
“Modern work environments present unique visual challenges. Office workers may spend eight or more hours staring at computer screens. Factory workers may face dust, chemicals, or mechanical hazards. Even teachers, drivers, health workers, and traders rely heavily on clear, functional vision to perform their duties effectively,’’ he observed.
He said that Digital eye strain has become increasingly common. Employees frequently complain of headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, and neck pain. These symptoms according to him are often dismissed as minor discomforts, yet over time they reduce efficiency and concentration.
He noted that beyond strain, systemic health conditions common among working adults such as diabetes and hypertension, also increase the risk of glaucoma and other vision-threatening diseases.
“Many employees monitor their blood pressure or blood sugar but rarely consider how these conditions affect their eyes.”
He gave reasons why Eye Wellness Matters to Employers, and made it clear that Healthy vision is directly linked to workplace performance. Also clear sight he said improves accuracy, enhances safety, and supports productivity.
In contrast, undiagnosed vision problems can contribute to errors, accidents, absenteeism, and reduced morale.
From an organizational perspective, preventive eye care is not merely a medical concern; it is a practical investment. Supporting employee eye health can reduce long-term healthcare costs and improve overall workforce wellbeing.
He suggested some practical steps toward work place eye wellness that when adopted will promote eye health in the workplace and do not require complex systems. Simple, intentional measures can make a meaningful difference like organizing periodic eye screenings.
The month of March provides an ideal opportunity for organizations to partner with eye care professionals for on-site screenings.
He advised that early detection of glaucoma and refractive errors can prevent long-term complications.
He also encouraged routine comprehensive eye examinations and employees, especially those over 40 or with a family history of glaucoma, should be reminded that absence of symptoms does not mean absence of disease.
Other preventive measures are promoting healthy screen habits: the 20-20-20 rule is easy to implement; every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Encouraging short visual breaks reduces digital strain. Proper lighting, reduced glare, and correct monitor positioning can significantly decrease visual fatigue.
He also suggested enforcement of protective eyewear where necessary.
“In industrial settings, eye protection should be non-negotiable. Prevention remains the most effective form of treatment.”
Dr Obi noted that Save Your Sight Month is more than a calendar observance. It is a reminder that blindness from glaucoma is largely preventable with early detection and timely management.
“Workplaces offer a powerful platform for awareness and intervention. By integrating eye health into corporate wellness programs, organizations can safeguard not only their employees’ productivity but also their quality of life.
“Vision enables independence, dignity, and opportunity. As we mark Save Your Sight Month this March, let us broaden the conversation.
“Protecting sight should not happen only in hospitals—it should happen in offices, factories, schools, and every environment where people work and build their futures.
“After all, preserving vision is not simply about seeing clearly today. It is about ensuring that tomorrow remains within sight.”
Ebele is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
