Under NPCB, screening of school children is first done by –
**Core Concept**
The National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB) aims to reduce the prevalence of blindness in India. As part of this program, school children are screened for various eye diseases to detect and treat conditions early. The screening process involves multiple steps, with the first step being a basic evaluation by trained personnel.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is **Academic Assistants (AAs)**. Academic Assistants are school teachers or educators who have been trained to conduct basic eye screening tests, such as visual acuity testing and simple refraction. They use a flashlight to shine light through the pupil to check for any abnormalities in the retina, such as cataracts or retinal detachment. AAs are the first line of defense in detecting eye problems in school children.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not accurately reflect the first step in NPCB's school screening program. While nurses may play a role in eye care, they are not typically the first point of contact for school children.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is too vague and does not specify the role or training of the personnel involved in the screening process.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it does not accurately describe the first step in NPCB's school screening program. While community health workers may be involved in health education and outreach, they are not typically the first point of contact for eye screening.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that NPCB's school screening program is a key component of India's national eye care strategy, and early detection of eye problems can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
**Correct Answer: A. Academic Assistants**