-Johnson  & Johnson (J & J) Vision Care Inc. is sponsoring free vision  evaluations and patient education for those attending the National Urban League  conference in New Orleans, July 25 to 28.

Several stations will be set up at which checks of  vision and examinations for signs of glaucoma or retinal irregularities will be  conducted. A physician will review the results of the evaluation with each  individual and provide educational materials on various eye conditions and the  importance of maintaining good vision health. Those for whom  additional medical or eye-related needs are uncovered in the evaluations will  have the opportunity to receive further assistance from the Daughters of  Charity Health Centers, a New Orleans organization that addresses health  disparities by offering primary and preventive health services.

“Many patients who suffer from chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and hypertension, also suffer from degeneration of the eyes,” says Michael Griffin, president and chief executive officer, Daughters of Charity Health Centers. “We are always excited about providing health care  services that allow members of the community-from infants to seniors-the opportunity  to live healthy lives.” 

The  fact that vision problems can disproportionately affect certain ethnic groups “is  cause for concern because not only are these individuals at greater risk for  certain eye conditions and diseases, but research also shows that many are not  receiving proper diagnosis and treatment,”  said Lee Ball, OD, associate director of professional affairs for the Vistakon  division of J & J Vision Care.

In a 2006 survey of 676 African-Americans, conducted  by Harris Interactive on behalf of J & J’s Vision Care Institute, 92% of respondents said that maintaining  proper vision is a priority for them, but only 47% had an eye exam within  the past year, and 24% had not had an eye exam in more than 2 years. Thirty  percent said their children had never seen an eye-care professional. 

Johnson & Johnson (J & J) Vision Care Inc. is sponsoring free vision evaluations for those attending the National Urban League conference in New Orleans.