By Dr. Deborah Oparaji (OD)
Many eye care myths still persist across Africa due to limited access to quality eye care and widespread misinformation. At SpecSMART Eye Clinic in Ikoyi, Lagos, our experienced optometrist are committed to educating the public, debunking myths, sharing important eye facts, and emphasizing why professional eye exams are essential for healthy vision and overall well-being.
Interesting Eye Facts
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Eyes are the most complex organs after the brain.
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Eye muscles are 100 times stronger than needed for their tasks.
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Eyes do not grow after birth.
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Blinking cleans and moistens the eyes and protects them reflexively.
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Tears contain natural antibiotics and fats that protect the eyes.
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A human eyeball weighs about 28 grams.
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All babies are color blind at birth.
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Average blinking rate is 12 times per minute.
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Smoking increases risks of cataracts and macular degeneration.
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Cataracts are the leading cause of adult blindness in low-income countries.
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Eyes begin developing two weeks after conception.
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Refractive errors are not cured but corrected with glasses.
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Eyes do not wear out but can get tired from overuse.
Common African Eye Care Myths Debunked
Myth 1: Eye tests always show you have an eye problem
Fact: Eye tests reveal existing conditions; they do not create problems.
Myth 2: Wearing glasses worsens eyesight
Fact: Not wearing prescribed glasses can worsen vision; glasses help maintain eye health.
Myth 3: Computer use causes worsening eyesight
Fact: Computer eye strain signals pre-existing issues, not the cause.
Myth 4: Good sight means no eye problem
Fact: Sight is the ability to see; vision includes understanding and reacting to what is seen.
Myth 5: Eye exams are only needed when problems occur
Fact: Regular exams detect hidden conditions before symptoms appear.
Myth 6: Eating carrots and fruits cures eye problems
Fact: Healthy foods support eye health but don’t replace medical treatment.
Myth 7: Onion or urine drops cure eye infections
Fact: These are harmful; infections require proper antibiotics or antivirals.
Myth 8: Reading in dim light damages eyes
Fact: It causes eye strain but not permanent damage.
Myth 9: If parents don’t wear glasses, children won’t need them
Fact: Genetics are complex; children may still need glasses regardless.
Why Eye Care Is Important
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Early detection prevents vision loss and enables timely treatment.
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Improves quality of life through better sight and vision.
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Detects systemic diseases like diabetes or hypertension through comprehensive eye exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I get an eye exam?
Regular eye exams are recommended even without symptoms, ideally annually or as advised by your optometrist at SpecSMART Eye Clinic.
Can eye diseases be prevented?
Many can be detected early and managed effectively with regular check-ups.
Are traditional remedies safe for eye conditions?
No. Always seek professional care to avoid harm.
Contact SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi
📍 SpecSMART Eye Clinic
📞 Phone: 0701 820 7486
📍 Address: Ikoyi Plaza, Keffi Street, Lagos.
📍Learn More
our 5-step eye test process in detail.
Trust professional advice over myths. Schedule your eye exam today and protect your vision with SpecSMART Eye Clinic, your trusted optometrist in Ikoyi!