The Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA), Cross River State chapter has condemned the activities of unqualified persons conducting eye examinations and dispensing prescription glasses to residents across the state.
State Chairperson of the association, Dr. Ogechi Nwaohiri-Chukwu, made the condemnation after witnessing where some individuals were conducting eye examinations and fitting lenses during a church programme.
Nwaohiri-Chukwu, told our reporter that she found out that the individuals were not optometrists and lacked the professional qualifications required to practise optometry or provide eye-care services.
According to her, the individuals were examining people’s eyes, prescribing and dispensing glasses, while also operating equipment for glazing lenses at the venue.
While describing the development as dangerous, she warned that eye care goes beyond determining whether a person can read letters on a chart and prescribing corrective lenses.
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The optometrist explained that a person could require glasses while simultaneously suffering from glaucoma, cataract, retinal disease, diabetic eye disease or optic nerve problems, which she said, could lead to irreversible sight loss if not detected and treated early.
She also warned that prescribing inappropriate lenses could cause headaches, eyestrain, blurred vision, dizziness and other difficulties.
The NOA chairperson called on the Cross River State government, Ministry of Health, relevant regulatory and security agencies, religious organisations and community leaders to take decisive action against unqualified persons providing eye-care services.
She said the association would continue to advocate for the protection of the public and the provision of safe, ethical and professional eye care across the state.
