Detecting and Managing Colour Blindness: Early Intervention and Innovative Solutions

New Delhi, 27 November, 2024 – Colour blindness, also known as colour vision deficiency, is a very common condition in which people perceive colours differently than others, having the inability to differentiate between certain colours or shades. Again, this doesn’t automatically mean complete lack of colour perception but may significantly influence daily life and job choices. The severe forms of the condition can impact the lives and choices of the affected more.

Colour blindness is usually diagnosed through a set of non-invasive tests that include the Ishihara Test, whereby one identifies numbers or symbols placed within coloured plates. This is used mostly to pick out red-green deficiencies, the most common kind of colour blindness. Another commonly used method is the Richmond HRR Test, which tests both red-green and blue-yellow deficiencies. For more detailed evaluation, tests such as the Cambridge Colour Test and Neitz Test of Colour Vision are used, especially in younger patients to note minimal differences in colour sensitivity.

Dr Anuradha Narayanan, Principal Elite school of Optometry, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, explains, “Colour blindness frequently goes undiagnosed in many individuals. The milder forms of this condition can only come into view with early detection. Early detection allows us to manage the disorder in a much better way and provide solutions that enable people to cope with their distinctive visual experiences. People with colour blindness can lead fulfilling lives so long as they get the right support and advice and navigate challenges with confidence.”

Colour blindness, typically of the red-green variation, is usually inherited and predominantly affects males. Sometimes, colour blindness is acquired due to certain health conditions, which may include diabetes. Moreover, it may sometimes be due to a condition caused by certain medications. In case colour blindness is acquired due to a health condition, proper medical treatment can improve their colour perception.

For the sufferers of the mildest form, colour-blindness glasses are also available. These glasses assist in improving colour contrast, thereby making it easier to distinguish between colours. However, with these glasses, they are not able to see colours that they cannot perceive. Patients with acquired colour vision deficiency should also undergo regular eye check-ups wherein the progression of the disease can be monitored and other underlying health conditions that could be contributing to their changes in vision can also be managed.

Despite the drawbacks of colour blindness, people with colour blindness can lead effective and productive lives. Detecting the colour vision deficiency early among children and counseling them for appropriate career choices is crucial. Education, appropriate diagnosis, and the application of assistive technologies can help individuals with colour blindness better cope with their world without missing opportunities.