Ndume calls on NDF to allow sunglasses

OFFICERS in the Defence Force are disproportionately at risk of an eye illness called pterygium, and should take appropriate measures – including wearing sunglasses – to avoid preventable blindness.

This was the message of eye surgeon Dr Helena Ndume when she briefed NDF soldiers on the importance of good eyesight during a graduation ceremony of members of the force who had participated in a training programme carried out by Women’s Action for Development (WAD).Ndume said soldiers are especially prone to an eye disease called pterygium, caused by over-exposure to ultraviolet light, for example sunlight, low humidity and dust. She said the disproportionate effect on soldiers may have to do with the long hours they stand in the sun during military functions, on duty, and in training. Urging commanders to allow NDF members to wear sunglasses, Ndume told them that wearing sunglasses ‘is not a fashion statement, but for protecting the eye’.She also urged commanders to ensure that members of the force go for eye tests once a year, in order to pick up on any preventable eye diseases.Dr Ndume told the gathering that ‘lifestyle diseases’ such as diabetes, hypertension and HIV-AIDS could also lead to various eye diseases. She encouraged the soldiers to get tested for HIV so that they can receive appropriate treatment.She said because people were often wary of getting tested, they were allowing various preventable conditions to take hold.In her final warning on eye care, Dr Ndume urged members of the defence force to stay away from alcohol, because the violence that often follows drinking can cause serious eye injuries.nangula@namibian.com.na