Swedish scientists see success in blindness cure

Scientists in Sweden may have discovered an innovative way to cure blindness around the globe. CBS News reports that researchers have created a new kind of artificial cornea that is inserted into the eye and can encourage the growth of other corneal cells to restore eyesight.

According to the news source, the procedure was successful with 10 patients in Sweden, and while further studies are needed, many eye care specialists say this is certainly a step in the right direction.

"I characterize this work as a major advance in the direction that we need to go," Dr Alan Carlson from Duke University's eye center told the news provider. "[To] make this mimic donor tissue to the extent that your own cells ultimately become incorporated in this tissue, I think that's the most exciting aspect."

The advancement could be a big step forward because vision depends largely on the health of the cornea, and there are an estimated 10 million people suffering from corneal blindness worldwide, according to the outlet.

In order to maintain eye health, the American Optometric Association (AOA), recommends that both children and adults receive regular eye exams. The AOA recommends scheduling an eye exam at least once every two years.