Paediatric eye care is undergoing an exciting transformation as new technologies, STEAM-driven innovations, research advancements, and digital tools reshape how clinicians diagnose, monitor, and manage childhood vision disorders. This session at Saleem Auditorium (Venue 2) brings together international experts, researchers, and clinicians who are advancing the future of optometry through evidence-based practice and cutting-edge technology.

With a focus on early detection, myopia control, retinal imaging, and digital-age visual wellness, these presentations highlight how technology is improving outcomes for children across Pakistan and beyond.

Venue & Session Overview

  • Venue: 2
  • Location: Saleem Auditorium
  • Category: Optometry / Paediatric Eye Care
  • Chair: Dr Amir Ali Ch. (UMDC, Pakistan)
  • Co-Chair: Mr Ajmal Ch. (SIMS, Lahore, Pakistan)

This session covers key global trends, including AI-powered imaging, myopia control technologies, digital eye strain management, and advanced visual screening tools.

Keynote Address

From Science to Society: Advancing Myopia Control through Technology and Education

Speaker: Don Lyon, Indiana University, USA

The keynote highlights the rising global prevalence of childhood myopia and emphasises the importance of integrating scientific innovation with community education. The talk explores the role of optical interventions, digital behaviour management, and predictive technologies in creating sustainable solutions for myopia control.

Invited Talk

A STEAM Framework for Retinal Innovation: Clinical and Technological Relevance of Reticular Pseudo Drusen (RPD) Detection through OCT Imaging

Speaker: Eman Alzghoul, Jordan University of Science, Jordan

This presentation demonstrates how OCT imaging and STEAM-based innovation improve early detection of RPD, shaping more effective management strategies for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and related retinal disorders.

Research Presentations

Childhood Myopia in Punjab: Prevalence Among School-Aged Children (4–16 Years)

Speaker: Amna Javed, Cardiff University, UK
 A comprehensive study highlighting the increasing burden of myopia in Punjab emphasises the need for early screening and school-based intervention programs.

Axial Length Changes After Short-Term Exposure to Blue Light

Speaker: Sidra Anwar, KE Lahore
 This study explores how blue light exposure affects axial length in emmetropic eyes with induced hyperopic defocus—providing insights relevant for digital screen habits in children.

Digital Eye Strain in the Digital Age: Predictors and Prevalence

Speaker: Sadaf Qayyum, Pakistan Institute of Ophthalmology (Al-Shifa Trust)
 A cross-disciplinary assessment identifying the risk factors and prevalence of digital eye strain among university students, offering pathways for preventive visual wellness strategies.

Effectiveness of Vision Pro Glasses for Low Vision

Speaker: Rabia Saeed, Riphah International University, Faisalabad
 An evaluation of how next-generation wearable devices, such as Vision Pro glasses, improve functional vision and daily task performance among low-vision patients.

Myopia and Learning Environment: Public vs. Private Schools

Speaker: Nimra Gul, The University of Faisalabad
 A comparative study assessing how different educational environments influence myopia prevalence among students in Pakistan.

Retinal Nerve Fibre Layer & Macular Thickness in Anaemic Patients

Speaker: Maryam Jabbar, The University of Faisalabad
 A clinical investigation showing how anaemia affects retinal structure, emphasising the need for integrated eye-health screening.

Assessment of Retinal Changes in Anaemia

Speaker: Ayesha Kiran, Al-Aleem Medical College, Lahore
 An analysis focusing on structural retinal variations in anaemic individuals, contributing to early diagnosis and treatment planning.