afrol News, 6 October - Over 1 million Nigerians are blind while 3.1 million others visually impaired, a national survey revealed.

The two-year survey, conducted by the federal ministry of health between 2005 and 2007, also revealed that at 75% of such blindness is avoidable.

Blindness afflicts male and female in all parts of the country, with the North-west geo-political zone accounting for the highest number of 0.32 million blind people. In the North-west 0.22 million are afflicted while North-central registered 0.18 millions. With a total figure of 0.12 million, the South-south has recorded the least number of blind people.

Ironically, the survey did not prove any significant difference between the prevalence of blindness among men and women. Also, its prevalence between urban and rural communities was not felt. This implies the absence of better eye care facilities and services in both urban and rural areas.

The study proved that 50% of blindness was caused by cataract, glaucoma resulted to 16% while others were blamed on muscular degeneration and reflective errors.

Nigeria's National Committee for the Prevention of Blindness said it was possible that about 50% of those with eye problems would have their sight fully restored through the use of glasses while 15% through surgery.

The onus now lies on Nigerian health experts to raise public awareness on the prevention of blindness and vision impairment as well as influence the government to prioritise the fight against the health problem.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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