The World Sight Day, which is observed each year on the second Thursday of October —this 2026 falls on October 8—, aims to raise awareness about the importance of eye health and promote access to ophthalmic care. The date invites reflection on the need to conduct regular eye checks, as many visual impairments can be prevented or treated if detected early.
According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), at least 2.2 billion people worldwide live with some form of visual impairment, and in almost half of cases, that condition could have been prevented or has yet to receive treatment. Beyond the figures, the impact appears in everyday situations such as difficulty driving at night, reading comfortably, or playing sports without depending on glasses or contact lenses.
The risk of getting used to poor vision
One of the main challenges in visual health is that many problems appear gradually. Myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, or presbyopia tend to advance slowly, causing people to normalize symptoms such as blurred vision, ocular fatigue, or headaches.
“In the clinic we see that the impact of poor vision is unique to each person. It isn’t the same a young patient with astigmatism who wants to play sports freely as an adult with presbyopia seeking to regain comfort in daily life. Each story matters, and that is why modern ophthalmology no longer offers universal solutions, but treatments designed for the lifestyle of each patient“, explains Dr. Nicolás Charles, specialist in cornea and refractive surgery.
Three keys to caring for visual health
Experts agree that most eye diseases can be treated successfully when detected early. To this end, they highlight three fundamental pillars:
- Conduct periodic ophthalmologic check-ups. They not only allow updating glasses prescriptions, but also measure intraocular pressure, assess retinal health, and detect silent diseases, such as glaucoma.
- Adopt healthy habits. Wear UV-protective sunglasses when outdoors, take breaks during extended screen use, and maintain adequate ocular lubrication to help preserve eye health.
- Evaluate personalized treatments. For those who wish to reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses or contact lenses, there are today high-precision refractive surgery procedures tailored to each patient’s characteristics and needs.
The importance of an early diagnosis
Advances in ophthalmology enable increasingly precise solutions tailored to each person. However, the first step remains the same: to consult in time and not minimize changes in vision.
“The aim of this day is to remind us that caring for vision is about reclaiming independence. Today we have the technology to transform people’s quality of life immediately; the first step is not postponing the check-up“, concludes Dr. Nicolás Charles.
Carrying out an annual eye examination, even when there are no obvious symptoms, remains one of the most effective tools to prevent diseases, preserve visual health, and maintain a good quality of life.
Source: Dr Nicolás Charles, specialist in cornea and refractive surgery at Charles Center Ophthalmology. MN: 99286.
