Over 1,200 residents benefit from Masindi eye camp

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In a remarkable initiative commemorating World Sight Day, over 1,200 individuals received comprehensive eye care services, including treatment, examinations, and surgeries, during a five-day eye camp held at Masindi Hospital.

According to Felix Twinomugisha, the acting district health officer for Masindi, a total of 1,286 people were reached by Thursday, with 156 patients undergoing various eye surgeries. Additionally, 618 individuals were provided with reading spectacles.

A section of Masindi residents attending the World Sight Day. (Photo by Yosam Gucwaki)

During the World Sight Day celebrations at Masindi Stadium, he explained that Masindi was selected by the Ministry of Health and its partners to host this important event, as the Bunyoro region has a significant burden of cataract cases.

Based on the data from the District Health Information Software (DHIS2), 2,383 cases have been diagnosed in the last two financial years, but only 250 have been treated.

Globally, 2.2 billion people are affected by visual impairment, according to the World Health Organisation's 2019 report, with approximately 2.5 million Ugandans suffering from moderate to severe visual impairments.

Denish Lubangakene, head of programs at Light for the World, who spoke on behalf of the implementing partners, highlighted the issue of treatable eye impairments affecting many children who are unable to attend school.

He emphasised the need for increased focus on preventive measures, stating that early detection can lead to effective treatment.

Masindi DPC Pensive Ukasima helping a resident put on her newly acquired reading spectacles. (Photo by Yosam Gucwaki)

Lubangakene urged the government to prioritise funding for eye care services, advocating for better resources for public awareness and prevention programs.

He also called for the integration of eye care within the primary health care system, stressing the necessity for adequate funding and robust policies to ensure access to quality eye care for all.

Irene Mbabazi, the eye care lead at Masindi Hospital, highlighted the numerous challenges facing eye care services, noting that she is often the only healthcare provider available to assist patients across multiple facilities.

She reported a shortage of diagnostic equipment and manpower, alongside a mounting number of patients suffering from eye complications.

Rooney Bahatungire, the Commissioner of Clinical Services in the Ministry of Health, addressing the congregation during the commemoration of the World Sight Day. (Photo by Yosam Gucwaki)

Rooney Bahatungire, the Commissioner of Clinical Services in the Ministry of Health, representing Minister Jane Ruth Aceng, stated that many eye conditions are preventable if proper precautions are taken.

He acknowledged that while access to quality eye care remains a challenge for many Ugandans, the government is actively addressing this issue.

 "As we work towards improvement, let us prioritise eye health through regular screenings and preventive measures," he advised.