National Sight-Saving Month takes place in May. The month is used to raise awareness about the importance of our eyesight. The eyes are one of the most important organs for any human. Most people will trade another organ for saving an eye. We will be in darkness, unaware of the happenings of the world in case we lose our precious eyes. Several diseases can affect the health of our eyes. This month is about raising awareness against such medical conditions. We will also look at ways in which we can best protect our eyes from damage.
History of National Sight-Saving Month
A dark world where we will have to start trusting our other senses. A pitch-black world where we cannot see anything. How cruel and frustrating it would be to live like that. The earliest form of life did not have any eyes. They could not sense light. But they are born into such a world and evolved mechanisms to comprehend the world around them. But evolution favored sight over other senses in most cases. The creatures with eyes started to appear around 541 million years ago. The first set of eyes were mostly primitive organs that could only detect light and dark. But evolution further perfected the art of sight and the complex eyes that we have evolved.
We are born with two eyes and we have a color perception. Research shows that our eyes use around 65% of our brain power. That is one significant power drain just for two eyes. The depth perception, color perception, and sharpness of our vision are one of the best in the animal world. But are we properly taking care of these amazing organs?
The number of Blind people worldwide is estimated to be 39 million. While most of these cases are by birth and uncontrollable conditions. But the number of people who lose their eyesight due to accidents and diseases is also high. Age-related conditions, cataracts, and diabetes are leading causes of eyesight loss. Regular checkups, proper healthcare, and a healthy lifestyle reduce the number of blind people in the world. The National Sight-Saving Month is dedicated to just that. Use this month to spread awareness about the potential health conditions and help people move into a healthier lifestyle.
National Sight-Saving Month timeline
Jacques Daviel successfully extracts cataracts for the first time.
Eduard Zirm conducts the first type of eye transplant surgery.
The first Sight Saving Month observation takes place.
Dr. Stephen Trokel and R. Srinivasan perform the first Photorefractive Keratectomy.
National Sight-Saving Month FAQs
Is there a Blindness Awareness Month?
Yes, October is observed as Blindness Awareness Month.
Which vitamin is good for your eyesight?
Vitamin A is best for eyesight.
How often should you get an eye exam C.D.C?
It is best to get a dilated eye exam once every year.
How to Observe National Sight-Saving Month
Visit an eye specialist for a checkup
This is a day dedicated to the health of the eyes. Visit an eye specialist and check your eyes. Make sure you get a yearly checkup to help save your eyes from future risks.
Post on social media
Create a social media poster showcasing the importance of the day. Mention why eye health is important and why regular checkups are needed.
Create a poster with eye care tips
Create a poster and mention general eye care tips in the same. Consult a doctor if you need any help with the poster.
5 Facts About Eyes That You Should Know
A very old evolution
It is estimated that animals began to develop eyes 550 million years ago.
Upside down vision
We see things upside down and our brain turns the image the right way up.
Incredibly fast blink
It is possible to blink five times in a single second.
The fastest organ
The eye is the fastest muscle in our body.
The number of Blind people
The World Health Organization estimates that there are 39 million Blind people worldwide.
Why National Sight-Saving Month is Important
It emphasizes good eye health
This day reminds us to take the health of our eyes seriously. It is an important step towards a safer tomorrow.
Awareness days are the best
We love awareness days. The eyes are one of the most delicate and important organs and their health is something that we should take care of.
It forms a habit
Today is a day to start a habit. The day can help people understand useful eyecare tips and can remind people to be aware of potential dangers to the health of our eyes.
National Sight-Saving Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 1 | Thursday |
| 2026 | May 1 | Friday |
| 2027 | May 1 | Saturday |
| 2028 | May 1 | Monday |
| 2029 | May 1 | Tuesday |
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