Youngsters increasingly prone to eye problems, warns AIIMS Bhubaneswar Executive Director Dr Biswas

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, OCTOBER 13, 2026

Young people are increasingly being affected by refractive errors and computer vision syndrome due to prolonged screen exposure and poor visual habits, AIIMS Bhubaneswar Executive Director Dr Ashutosh Biswas said on Tuesday, stressing the need for regular eye check-ups and timely medical intervention to prevent vision loss.

The Department of Ophthalmology at AIIMS Bhubaneswar caters to around 230-250 patients daily, with a monthly footfall of approximately 5,000-6,000 patients, Dr Biswas said, adding that refractive errors, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and computer vision syndrome are among the commonly reported eye conditions.

Several eye disorders can lead to severe visual impairment or blindness if left undiagnosed or untreated. However, many cases of vision loss can be prevented, effectively managed or treated through timely medical intervention, he said.

To raise awareness about eye health and promote universal access to quality eye care, the Department of Ophthalmology at AIIMS Bhubaneswar organised a series of awareness and community-oriented activities to mark World Sight Day, including a walkathon.

Addressing the programme, Dr Biswas expressed concern over the growing incidence of eye problems among young people, particularly refractive errors and computer vision syndrome. Prolonged screen exposure, inadequate visual hygiene and neglect of early symptoms can adversely affect eye health, he said.

The programme encouraged young people to adopt healthy visual habits, take appropriate breaks during prolonged screen use, undergo regular eye examinations and consult an ophthalmologist whenever they experience vision-related difficulties.

The initiative also highlighted the importance of making eye care accessible, available and affordable for everyone, everywhere, conveying the message, “Love Your Eyes”.

Among those present at the programme were Dean Dr Dillip Kumar Parida, Medical Superintendent Dr Prabhas Ranjan Tripathy, Deputy Director (Administration) Lt Col Abhijit Sarkar, Head of the Department of Ophthalmology Dr Sucheta Parija, Dr Sandip Sahu, Dr Priyadarsini Mishra and Dr Bijnya B Panda.