The Mackenzie Memorial Lecture, 1977. Of divers colours

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Genetics
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Understanding the sensation of color and the biological basis of human color vision is fundamental.
• Color vision defects (deficiency) are a significant aspect of visual health, impacting daily life and work.
• The historical context of assessing and managing color vision deficiencies is crucial for current practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the nature of color sensation and vision, and the existence of color vision defects.
• To evaluate the efficacy of a careers advisory service for school children with color vision deficiencies, particularly red-green blindness.
• To explore the applications of color vision testing in genetics and early disease diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Review of the nature of color sensation and vision.
• Analysis of different types of color vision defects and testing methodologies.
• Survey of a careers advisory service for color vision deficient children (1965-1977).
• Description of modifications to the 100-hue test and its automation.

Main Results:

• A survey indicated the value of a careers advisory service for color vision deficient school children.
• Color vision testing demonstrated utility in genetic analysis and early detection of diseases or toxicity.
• Modifications and automation of the 100-hue test were developed for improved computation and recording.

Conclusions:

• Routine color vision examinations are recommended at key educational stages (primary and secondary entry).
• Analysis of occupational color tasks and adoption of improved color coding systems are advocated.
• Color vision testing remains a valuable tool with broad applications beyond simple defect identification.