Looking Around the World

1/16/2022

This past week, I researched pediatric ophthalmology in other parts of the world, including West Africa, South India, and Chile. The study I looked into discussed avoidable blindness’ causes. This really interests me, as the prominence of childhood blindness cases that are preventable and treatable is concerning. One aspect that surprised me was that vitamin A deficiency and measles can contribute to childhood blindness, which I plan to research further. Corneal scarring is also a prominent source of childhood blindness in these countries that I hope to learn more about. This study outlined principles of prevention, with primary intervention involving a unique route of measles immunization and vitamin A supplementation. Additionally, this topic highlights how there is little data on childhood blindness in other parts of the world. This adds to my look into the lack of research in pediatric ophthalmology, as developing countries with a shortage of ophthalmology resources have different issues. Our research showcase has now been scheduled for February 23 and I am excited to have the opportunity to put together a display and presentation for my original work, which focuses on research recommendations in the field. In this coming week, I plan to continue to explore areas of pediatric ophthalmology that could be involved in my final product and work out more details in my mentorship.