The School of Medical Sciences (SOMS), University of Hyderabad, organised a guest lecture on “Stop Myopia Progression”, delivered by Dr. Baskar Theagarayan, Senior Lecturer in Optometry from University of Huddersfield, United Kingdom, as part of the SOMS Lecture Series.
The lecture focused on myopia as an emerging global public health burden, its growing prevalence and impact, currently available treatment and management protocols, the evolution of research in myopia control, and emerging directions for future research and clinical practice. The session provided valuable insights into contemporary approaches to myopia management and was particularly beneficial to students and scholars of Optometry.
Prof. Ramesh Kumar Mishra, Dean, School of Medical Sciences, University of Hyderabad, appreciated Dr. Baskar for highlighting the increasing global burden of myopia and presenting a comprehensive overview of its impact, available treatment protocols, advances in research, and future directions. He noted that the lecture was highly informative and contributed significantly to the academic exposure of Optometry students.
An interactive question-and-answer session followed the lecture, providing participants with an opportunity to engage with the speaker on various scientific, clinical, and research-related aspects of myopia. Scholars and students from Optometry and Cognitive Science, along with students of Integrated M.Optometry and B.Optometry, actively participated in the programme.
Prof. Shamanna, Associate Director, shared his perspectives on the growing importance of myopia prevention and management. He also interacted with Dr. Baskar regarding possibilities for future institutional collaboration, including a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), academic exchanges, and collaborative programmes between the institutions through the University’s International Affairs Office.
The programme was coordinated by Dr. Shiva Ram Male, Course coordinator Optometry Programme, as part of the ongoing SOMS Lecture Series.
Faculty members Prof. Mahadev, Prof. Anitha C.T., and Dr. Surya Durga Prasad were also present and participated in the academic interaction.
The lecture strengthened academic engagement in the area of myopia research and management while opening avenues for potential international collaboration, academic exchange, and future research initiatives in Optometry and vision science and allied health sciences.
