Lagos:A free eye screening conducted among staff of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos identified cases of uncorrected presbyopia, as well as providing an opportunity to address other potential vision issues faced by journalists.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the eye screening and glasses distribution event was held at the NAN Lagos office as part of the NAN 2026 Media Week’s medical outreach. The initiative was organized by the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) and sponsored by Lions Club International, District 404B4.
Optometrist and Medical Director of Digital Bridge Eye Clinic, Dr. Ezinwanne Osuji, highlighted that presbyopia, a condition affecting the ability to see things clearly up close as part of the aging process, hampered the journalists’ activities. He recommended further testing for several participants and addressed issues related to digital eye strain, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures.
Dr. Osuji also spoke about the risks of glaucoma, particularly for individuals over 40 or those with a family history of the condition, underscoring the need for comprehensive eye exams to prevent irreversible vision loss. Free glasses were provided in collaboration with Lions Club, and participants were educated on maintaining eye health.
Mrs. Funmilayo Oladeji of Lions Clubs International noted that the initiative aimed to promote healthier workers, stressing the connection between health and productivity. Meanwhile, Mrs. Ifeyininwa Omowole of NAN Lagos Operations highlighted the necessity of regular eye screenings for journalists, given their prolonged screen use.
Mr. Kevin Okunzuwa, Head of Editorial Operations at NAN Lagos, and Mr. Yusuf Yunus, Chairman of NUJ NAN Lagos Chapel, both emphasized the importance of awareness and preventive care for eye health among journalists. The exercise was seen as crucial in understanding and mitigating the effects of prolonged screen exposure.
Staff members, including Ms. Uchechi Afonne and Mrs. Sandra Umeh, expressed gratitude for the initiative, acknowledging its timely intervention in addressing eye health concerns related to their work. They urged for periodic screenings to help maintain good eye health and enhance work performance.