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27/05/2014
Warning Over Increasing Numbers Of Blind Children
A warning has been launched by the charity Blind Children UK over the increasing number of blind or partially sighted children being born, thought to be the result of a rise in the survival rates of severely premature babies.
The charity said that one in 20 premature babies surviving is likely to be born blind. It estimated the number has risen 22% in the last decade to more than 1,800.
The number of children registered blind or partially sighted has risen by 9% since 2006. Considering only children aged under five, the figure has risen by 12%.
Sally Freeman from Blind Children UK said: "The child won't know they have a visual impairment and if it's the first time for the parents, then they won't know there's a visual impairment involved."
Blind Children UK is trying to raise awareness of the warning signs that parents should watch for like as red or cloudy eyes and babies or children reacting badly to bright light.
(CVS/IT)
The charity said that one in 20 premature babies surviving is likely to be born blind. It estimated the number has risen 22% in the last decade to more than 1,800.
The number of children registered blind or partially sighted has risen by 9% since 2006. Considering only children aged under five, the figure has risen by 12%.
Sally Freeman from Blind Children UK said: "The child won't know they have a visual impairment and if it's the first time for the parents, then they won't know there's a visual impairment involved."
Blind Children UK is trying to raise awareness of the warning signs that parents should watch for like as red or cloudy eyes and babies or children reacting badly to bright light.
(CVS/IT)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
