PRESS RELEASE
October is globally recognized as Blindness Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about vision impairment, blindness, and the importance of eye health. Central to this observance is World Sight Day, commemorated annually on the second Thursday of October.
This year, it falls on October 9th under the powerful theme: “Love Your Eyes.” This theme calls on individuals, communities, and governments to prioritize eye health by encouraging regular eye examinations and promoting accessible, affordable, and quality eye care for all.
It also emphasizes the importance of assistive technologies and inclusive services for persons living with visual impairments. World Sight Day serves as a global reminder of the urgent need for:
Early detection and treatment of eye conditions
Regular eye check-ups
Access to comprehensive eye care services
Advocacy for the rights and dignity of persons with visual impairments
The International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) continues to champion the message of putting “people at the heart of eye health,” spotlighting lived experiences and community-driven action. In Dominica, the impact of sight-related diseases is significant. It is estimated that up to 80% of global blindness is avoidable, and developing countries like ours bear a disproportionate burden.
The five leading causes of avoidable blindness in Dominica are:
Glaucoma
Cataract
Diabetic Retinopathy
Refractive Errors
Childhood Blindness
The Dominica Association of Persons with Disabilities (DAPD) urges all citizens to take proactive steps in preserving their vision. We must work collectively to eliminate the causes of avoidable blindness and uphold the right to sight for all—especially the millions who are needlessly blind.
“In our world, a person goes blind every five seconds, and a child goes blind every minute. Do all you can to preserve your sight. Help eliminate avoidable blindness.”
This is the message DAPD proudly shares as it commemorates World Sight Day 2025. Let us all “Love Our Eyes” and advocate for a future where no one is left in the dark.