Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai (MEHD), the first overseas branch of London’s 200-year old institution for ophthalmic treatment, has unveiled a vision screening initiative at the Jumeirah English Speaking Schools (JESS) for children between the ages of 5 and 7.

Starting with the school’s campus at the Arabian Ranches, the screening was led by senior clinical Orthoptist at Moorfields Keith Wilken and included testing for distance and near visual acuity, stereopsis (binocular depth perception), eye muscle balance and movement, and retinal or red feflex.

“Conducting eye tests for children is extremely important as approximately 25 per cent of school-going children are diagnosed with vision problems. If diagnosed early, complications can be prevented in the long run as children are more responsive to treatment,” said CEO and medical director of Moorfields Chris Canning.

Following the vision tests, results, recommendations and a full account of the screening performed were sent home with the children for their parents’ reference.

“The JESS institutions have taken the lead in endorsing the importance of children’s eye health. We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the participating schools for offering their support to this new initiative,” said Dr Canning.

The vision screening initiative was concluded at the JESS Jumeirah School, where the vision of approximately 80 children in the same age group was tested. – TradeArabia News Service