| Keyword |
Description |
| Retina |
The light-sensing layer at the back of the eye that helps create images |
| Artificial Intelligence |
Computer programs that learn patterns to make predictions, like spotting diseases in pictures |
| Adapter |
A simple tool that lets a phone take special eye photos safely and clearly |
Alejandro Aguilar, a student in Celaya, won Mexico’s 2025 James Dyson National Award for creating OpticalApp, a phone app that checks eyes. Using artificial intelligence, the app looks at retina photos and can flag up to 28 diseases in less than 30 seconds. It is designed for people without medical training and includes an audio helper and multiple languages. A low-cost adapter helps a phone camera take the right kind of eye picture almost anywhere. Alejandro saw lots of data but few simple mobile tools and was inspired by his mother’s vision exam work. He was one of 28 national winners chosen from 2,100 entries.
In Mexico, many people struggle to see even with glasses, and experts say much blindness could be prevented with early checks. Alejandro tackled challenges like aligning the light without hurting the eye and plans a stronger lens and better light control. The prize includes 126,000 pesos to keep improving OpticalApp, and the top 20 finalists will be named Oct. 15. The app also explains symptoms in simple language so families can decide when to seek a doctor. OpticalApp shows how smart design and science can bring fast, affordable eye screening to more communities.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English |
Spanish |
| Retina |
Retina |
| Photos |
Fotos |
| Families |
Familias |
Time to discuss
- Should health apps be used at home before visiting a doctor?
- How can prizes encourage students to solve real-life problems?
- What features make a medical app easy for everyone to use?
Let's write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph:
- Describe a time technology helped someone in the community, and explain why it mattered.
- Design a new feature for OpticalApp and tell how it would help more people.
