Technology
Breast milk not a cure for eye problems – Optometrist advises parents
The Head of Eye Unit at the Ga North Municipal Hospital, Dr Godwin Asamoah Ahiakwao, has cautioned parents against applying breast milk to their children’s eyes, warning that the practice can lead to severe infections rather than healing.
Speaking during a free eye-screening exercise organised by the hospital to mark World Sight Day 2025, celebrated under the theme, “Love Your Eyes, Love Your Sight,” Dr Ahiakwao described the habit as dangerous and medically unfounded.
“We want parents to stop using breast milk on their children’s eyes because it can cause infections, including severe ones. This is because breast milk is not sterile and can introduce bacteria into the eye,” he stated.
According to a myjoyonline.com report dated October 26, 2025, the Principal Optometrist explained that breast milk, though rich in nutrients, could worsen eye conditions.
Breast milk is not a cure for ‘apollo’, it will rather worsen it – Senior Optometrist
Dr Ahiakwao therefore urged parents to seek professional medical care immediately when they observe any abnormality in their children’s eyes.
He reminded parents that clear vision is fundamental to learning and cognitive development.
“It’s the eyes they use for learning and reading, so parents must make sure their children’s sight is always checked,” he said.
As part of the celebration, the Ga North Municipal Hospital conducted a free eye-screening exercise for pupils of Silicon Valley International School, successfully examining about 1,000 students.
The exercise aimed to promote early detection of vision problems and encourage a culture of regular eye check-ups.
Dr Ahiakwao also advised against excessive screen exposure, particularly among children and office workers, recommending the 20/20/20 rule for maintaining healthy vision.
“For every 20 minutes of close work, take a 20-second break and look 20 metres away. That simple practice helps to relax the eyes and prevent strain,” he explained.
Rural dwellers cautioned against unconventional eye treatments
The school’s Head of Junior High and Boarding House Supervisor, Dominic Owusu Ansah, expressed appreciation to the Ga North Municipal Health Service for its proactive initiative.
He noted that the collaboration has positively influenced pupils’ academic performance by addressing vision-related challenges early.
He emphasised that early intervention in eye health directly improves learning outcomes, underscoring the link between good eyesight and educational success.
NPP’s KOKA speaks on NDC government’s performance in 10 months
The Head of Eye Unit at the Ga North Municipal Hospital, Dr Godwin Asamoah Ahiakwao, has cautioned parents against applying breast milk to their children’s eyes, warning that the practice can lead to severe infections rather than healing.
Speaking during a free eye-screening exercise organised by the hospital to mark World Sight Day 2025, celebrated under the theme, “Love Your Eyes, Love Your Sight,” Dr Ahiakwao described the habit as dangerous and medically unfounded.
“We want parents to stop using breast milk on their children’s eyes because it can cause infections, including severe ones. This is because breast milk is not sterile and can introduce bacteria into the eye,” he stated.
According to a myjoyonline.com report dated October 26, 2025, the Principal Optometrist explained that breast milk, though rich in nutrients, could worsen eye conditions.
Breast milk is not a cure for ‘apollo’, it will rather worsen it – Senior Optometrist
Dr Ahiakwao therefore urged parents to seek professional medical care immediately when they observe any abnormality in their children’s eyes.
He reminded parents that clear vision is fundamental to learning and cognitive development.
“It’s the eyes they use for learning and reading, so parents must make sure their children’s sight is always checked,” he said.
As part of the celebration, the Ga North Municipal Hospital conducted a free eye-screening exercise for pupils of Silicon Valley International School, successfully examining about 1,000 students.
The exercise aimed to promote early detection of vision problems and encourage a culture of regular eye check-ups.
Dr Ahiakwao also advised against excessive screen exposure, particularly among children and office workers, recommending the 20/20/20 rule for maintaining healthy vision.
“For every 20 minutes of close work, take a 20-second break and look 20 metres away. That simple practice helps to relax the eyes and prevent strain,” he explained.
Rural dwellers cautioned against unconventional eye treatments
The school’s Head of Junior High and Boarding House Supervisor, Dominic Owusu Ansah, expressed appreciation to the Ga North Municipal Health Service for its proactive initiative.
He noted that the collaboration has positively influenced pupils’ academic performance by addressing vision-related challenges early.
He emphasised that early intervention in eye health directly improves learning outcomes, underscoring the link between good eyesight and educational success.
NPP’s KOKA speaks on NDC government’s performance in 10 months
