By Faith Anene, Kakamega
Josefina Arthritis Center in Sinoko Ward has partnered with Sabatia Eye Hosptal in helping the community to get eye treatment which most of the time has proven to be costy.
Speaking during an eye camp at Josefina Arthritis Centre in Sinoko ward, Thomas Bifwoli Chief Executive Officer of the hospital said many people today suffer much from eye problems including cataracts a cloudy area in the lens of the eye that leads to a decrease in vision of the eye, often develop slowly and can affect one or both eyes.
Cataract, whose symptoms may include faded colors, blurry or double vision, halos around light, trouble with bright lights, and difficulty seeing at night. This may result in trouble driving, reading, or recognizing faces. Poor vision caused by this eye disorder may also result in an increased risk of blindness.Cataracts is cause by 51 percent of all cases of blindness and 33 percent of visual impairment worldwide.
He said that cataract are not easily treated and they are trying to bring experts and doctors with advanced skills to handle the patients.”I’m told that there was a good turnout of almost 400 people who were treated and given medicine and about 60 patients are being taken to Sabatia eye hospital for surgery.” Bifwoli added.
A patient receiving cataracts treatment during the camp
Lorna Mbaya, a nurse at Sabatia eye hospital said that Cataract surgery is indeed a curative procedure that can restore vision for patients suffering from cataracts. When a client visits the hospital, they can receive proper treatment, and if surgery is necessary, it can help them see again.
Nelly Hamisi a head teacher at Salvation Army Matunda Special School for Visually Impaired said that she is doing sensitization to parents with children who are suffering from Cataract for acceptance.”We have reached out to some children who are totally blind and are being hidden in their homes and their parents do not know that this eye problems ranging from visually impaired, low vision to blind, this children can still go to school,” Hamisi added.
Gibson Masai said that cataracts are often considered a neglected condition, and raising awareness about it is crucial. Sensitizing people can help them understand the importance of early detection and treatment, which can significantly improve their quality of life. Education on the signs and symptoms of cataracts can encourage individuals to seek medical help sooner.
