June 6 marked China's 31st National Eye Care Day. The Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center (ZOC) of Sun Yat-sen University unveiled a series of technology-powered ophthalmic products in Guangzhou.
Among the new releases was a breakthrough AI-powered ophthalmic device compact enough for home use. According to the ZOC, the portable device can screen for 16 common eye conditions in approximately 10 seconds.
"We hope this device will become as common as a blood pressure monitor or a stethoscope, an essential piece of home health equipment, making cutting-edge technology truly accessible to everyone," said Prof. Lin Haotian, director of ZOC and president of its affiliated hospital.
Prof. Lin said that even in remote areas without internet access, users can simply capture images of their eyes using the device to screen for cataracts, keratitis, pterygium, and 13 other anterior segment diseases. He added, "Mass production is planned to bring the device into millions of households."
At the event, Prof. Liang Lingyi, Deputy Director of ZOC, presented ZOC's achievements in international cooperation and released results from the "SPECS 2030" initiative carried out in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO). ZOC also serves as China's sole WHO Collaborating Center for Eye Care and Vision.
Data collected from the center's eye care map and large AI model have enabled a replicable and scalable path for global eye health innovation, which has been recognized by the WHO. The center has also been invited to share its experience globally, according to ZOC.
ZOC also announced a citywide smart screening program at the event. The initiative marks a systematic effort to bring intelligent ophthalmic screening vehicles to communities across Guangzhou.
"For example, we will first cover all residents aged 60 and above, and then gradually expand to those aged 18 to 60, with the goal of eventually covering all urban districts," explained Prof. Lin. Screening priorities will vary by age group, with a focus on cataracts and fundus lesions for residents aged 60 and above.
Reporter | Chen Jinxia
Photo | Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center of Sun Yat-sen University
