Honourable senators, I rise today to recognize May as National Vision Health Month in Canada.

Healthy vision impacts our physical and mental health, quality of life and productivity. Sight loss can impact anyone at any time. According to recent statistics, there are 2.1 million Canadians who live with vision loss or blindness, and over 5.6 million Canadians are living with a vision-threatening condition. Meanwhile, 75% of vision-loss cases can be prevented if patients are diagnosed early and have access to treatment.

I had the honour of speaking with former senator Asha Seth a few days ago. Some of you will remember her tireless work in the Senate, especially in establishing May as national Vision Health Month, an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of eye health and ways to prevent vision loss. As I have spoken about previously, I am becoming aware that part of my and our role as senators is to continue the work and stand on the shoulders of those who have come before us.

I would like to draw your attention to the importance of early intervention and regular eye examinations starting from birth as recommended by the Canadian Paediatric Society. These examinations are essential in diagnosing critical eye conditions like congenital cataract or retinoblastoma. Additionally, regular eye examinations will pick up common childhood visual disorders like amblyopia and refractive disorders.

However, we know there are barriers for vulnerable populations in receiving regular and accessible vision care and treatment. In my province of Ontario, only 65% of children have had an eye exam before their seventh birthday. As a pediatrician, I find this alarming. Ten per cent of preschool children will have a refractory error that can be corrected with a simple pair of glasses. Those who need more specialized support and services can get help from organizations like CNIB and Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada.

Myopia is one of today’s biggest threats to eye health because it is predicted to affect one in two people by 2050. Increases in screen time by children and adolescents, especially during the pandemic, have only magnified these problems.

Children with moderate to severe myopia are at risk of developing cataracts, glaucoma and other conditions that could lead to blindness.

In closing, simply getting a regular eye exam and wearing sunglasses to protect one’s eyes can help contribute to good vision health.

Thank you. Meegwetch.