World Sight Day is an annual day of awareness celebrated on the second Thursday of October each year. The International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) members work together to raise public awareness of blindness and vision impairment, influence governments to participate and designate funds for national blindness prevention funds, and educate target audiences about blindness prevention. The IAPB aims to focus the world's attention on the importance of eye care. World Sight Day 2022 takes place on October 13th and continues with the theme and call to action of: “Love your Eyes.”

Nearly everyone on the planet will experience an eye health issue in their lifetime and more than a billion people worldwide do not have access to eye care services. To address the bigger picture at the country and global level, individuals need to be aware of their own eye health and embrace the theme #LoveYourEyes.

Globally, Optos devices with optomap ultra-widefield retinal imaging technology are assisting eye care professionals to offer the most comprehensive eye exams possible. Early detection of any retinal abnormality is crucial to maintaining ocular and systemic health because in most cases of eye disease, in the early stages, they exhibit minimal to no signs or symptoms. Diseases such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinal tears or detachments, and other health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure can be seen with a thorough exam of the retina, which includes the use of optomap. 

As ambassadors of eye health, Optos would like to encourage all eye care practitioners to participate in World Sight Day by reminding your patients to maintain a regular schedule for comprehensive eye exams including optomap. 

With the ability to view up to 200 degrees of the retina, eye care professionals may be able to diagnose eye pathologies earlier than with other imaging systems, contributing to greater success in preventable vision loss and blindness, thus saving sight and saving lives. Contact us today to learn more about the benefits that optomap technology can bring to your practice or clinical setting. Additionally, we urge you to share your story with us, as we strive to increase awareness surrounding the importance of routine eye exams.