‘Regular eye tests of drivers may prevent road deaths’

Road accident deaths can be prevented every year if drivers undergo regular eye check-ups, says Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Sharfuddin Ahmed.

Inaugurating a daylong eye camp and diabetes test event at Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) in the capital on Friday, he said many road accidents happen at night as many drivers suffer from eye diseases but they do not undergo eye tests due to a lack of awareness.

Prof Ahmed said many drivers cannot see properly and they see with only one eye.

“This imbalance leads to road accidents. Regular eye check-ups are needed for drives to save people’s lives.”

He also said children should have their eyes tested regularly, adding many of them do not do well in exams as they have vision problems. “This means children are deprived of the opportunity of intellectual development.”

The physician also suggested children undergo eye examinations before starting school at the age of five.

DRU President Nazrul Islam Mithu presided over the ceremony while its Welfare Secretary Kamruzzman Bablu moderated the event. DRU General Secretary Dr Nurul Islam Hasib and Lion’s district convention Chairperson Nawjat Sarwar Islam spoke on the occasion, among others.

Around 200 family members of DRU members participated in the medical camp arranged by the association.