Some 4-8 million Vietnamese people are suffering from xerophthalmia – a progressive eye disease caused by vitamin A deficiency that can dry out tear ducts and eyes.

The statistics were released at a workshop held in Hanoi on December 20 by the International Eye Hospital.

At the workshop (Source http://www.qdnd.vn)

Xerophthalmia can develop into night blindness or more serious damage to cornea, the outer layer of eyes. This damage may take the form of white spots on eyes and ulcers on corneas. Xerophthalmia usually can be reversed with vitamin A therapy.

Xerophthalmia symptoms start out mild, and then get progressively worse if a vitamin A deficiency isn’t treated.

Night blindness is an early symptom. This is an inability to see in dim light.

Getting enough Vitamin A is essential for vision, experts said.

They suggested protecting eyes from dust, not abusing eyewash and limiting the use of smart phones and computers to counter the condition.-VNA