Kenyan School Trial Smartphone Optician

Kenyan School Trial Smartphone Optician

Teachers in a Kenyan school are to trial a modified smartphone to catch pupils' eye problems. Eye care and access to such equipment is a major issue in the developing world. When this new kit was used on 1000 older people, it had very promising results leading to relevant treatment. The main problem in these countries is poor eyesight and the hope is that this modified smartphone will enable them to have glasses as soon as problems arise.

So how does it work? It's aptly called the Portable Eye Examination Kit (Peek) and the app uses a basic vision test by using a shrinking letter. By using the cameras flash light it enables the back of the eye and the retina to check for any diseases. All records are stored on the phone and results can then be emailed to doctors. Children showing any problems will then be referred to Kitale District Hospital.

Dr Andrew Bastawrous from London School of Hygeine and Tropical Medicine believes that many children under perform in schools because of a lack of eye examinations, leading to undiagnosed vision problems.

The Peek trial in adults is still taking place, but the early results so far are effectively picking up eye problems.