Erie airport highlighting vision awareness with new interactive display
An interactive display in the terminal provides an easy way to check for symptoms of serious vision conditions. Better yet, those who suspect an issue can get a free screening and, if needed, treatment.
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'This is the first place where patients from other states and countries get to see erie first. It's also where all our clients come through. All the time through here,' said Dr. David Almeida of Erie Retina Research.
After travelers come through security at Erie International Airport, they'll see a step-by-step guide to check for early signs of vision conditions.
'The number one cause of blindness in Erie County and the developed world is age-related macular degeneration. There's nothing that comes close,' Dr. Almeida said.
'X' marks the spot where travelers can cover one eye and look at the grid and the letters for symptoms of vision loss.
Erie International Airport set to roll out Real ID this spring
The board features contact information for Erie Retina Research, which provides free screenings and treatment.
'We in the past have done things with other organizations that are health related and this was an opportunity to help people that might not know that there are challenges with their eyes that their is an alternative and some solutions that are cost effective,' said Derek Martin, executive director of the Erie International Airport.
Dr. Almeida said many people don't seek treatment because they suspect vision loss is normal with age and there's nothing they can do. But he says that's not the case
'How important is early diagnosis? It's everything,' he said. 'We have gene therapy, things like macular degeneration, diabetes, we can cure almost we thought that it wouldn't be possible, things like that, and we have done more gene therapy here in Erie than anywhere else in the United States.'
New cutting-edge tech helping Erie eye doctors revolutionize treatment
Dr. Almeida recommended that anyone over the age of 55 who has diabetes or is experiencing changes in their vision get a free screening.
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