Accra: Lions International District 418 has organised a free eye screening for nearly 300 drivers, drivers' mates, and traders at the Tema Station and 37 Lorry Station in Accra. This initiative is part of their global mission to prevent blindness, particularly avoidable blindness, among the public.
According to Ghana News Agency, Lion Isaac Batini, District Vision and Awareness Chairperson, stated that the organisation partnered with the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) for this initiative. The campaign aimed to raise awareness among drivers about the importance of regular eye check-ups to prevent or address vision-related conditions. Batini emphasized the significance of vision for road safety, noting that it is often overlooked by both drivers and passengers. He expressed satisfaction with the turnout, especially at the 37 Lorry Station, highlighting the cooperation from the NRSA, Ghana Health Service, and station leaders.
At the Tema Station, common conditions identified included refractive errors, cataracts, pterygium, suspicious disc, and pinguecula. The majority of beneficiaries were traders and passengers rather than the targeted drivers. Madam Vida Arthur, an ophthalmic nurse from the Presbyterian Hospital in Aburi and a member of the medical team for the screening, mentioned that some individuals received medications, while others were referred for surgeries and treatments at certified health institutions.
Madam Arthur explained that environmental factors, such as dust and sun exposure, contribute to conditions like pterygium, which may also have a familial tendency. She advised that individuals should undergo annual eye reviews before the age of 40, and more frequently if there is a family history of glaucoma or cataracts.
At the 37 Lorry Station, Madam Eunice Yeboah, Deputy Chief Nursing Officer at Ridge Hospital, reported identifying conditions such as immature cataract, refractive errors, and allergies. Some were treated on-site, while others were referred to nearby facilities. The majority of those screened were drivers. Kojo Adomako, a driver at 37 Lorry Station, shared that he often struggles to read, and the screening prompted him to seek further medical attention. Another driver, Matthew Wilson, admitted that this was his first eye screening and was advised to visit a hospital due to difficulty reading small letters. Trader Adwoa Kyerewaa was given medication and referred for surgery at Ridge Hospital.
Mr. Charles Ntim, National Road Safety Advocate and Communicator, NRSA, Greater Accra Region, commented that the screening aligns with the NRSA's goals of ensuring safety for drivers, pedestrians, and road users. Drivers were educated on the necessity of good vision for safe driving. Ntim urged drivers to participate in such screenings, noting that many had neglected the exercise to remain in their vehicles.
