By Huzaifa Kermani | Group Director MarComms
Introduction:
Cataract surgery is a crucial medical intervention for restoring sight and improving the quality of life for individuals suffering from cataracts. In Pakistan, where cataracts are a leading cause of blindness, the need for accessible and affordable cataract surgery is urgent. This report highlights the significance of cataract surgery in Pakistan, supported by relevant data and sources, and outlines the efforts of the NUR-Fatima Memorial System to address this pressing healthcare challenge.
Cataract Surgery in Pakistan:
Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in Pakistan, affecting thousands of individuals, particularly in underserved and rural areas. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that cataracts account for 51% of blindness globally, and in Pakistan, this percentage is even higher due to the lack of routine eye care services and access to affordable surgery.
In a study published in the British Journal of Opthalmology,"Despite expanded surgical services, cataract still accounts for over half of the cases of blindness in Pakistan. One in eight blind adults has visual loss from sequelae of cataract surgery" (Dineen, B., Bourne, R. R., Jadoon, Z., Shah, S. P., Khan, M. A., Foster, A., Gilbert, C. E., Khan, M. D., & Pakistan National Eye Survey Study Group, 2007).
Project Overview:
The NUR-Fatima Memorial System has embarked on a project to provide free intra-ocular lens (IOL) replacement surgery to patients suffering from cataracts. After successfully restoring the sight of 150 individuals, the project aims to offer another 150 patients free IOL replacement surgery.
Challenge:
Cataract is a leading cause of blindness in Pakistan, with thousands suffering from this preventable condition due to inadequate routine eye care services. Extra efforts, such as organizing eye camps, are essential to reach those in need. By conducting two eye camps per year, each lasting three days, the project aims to help at least 150 individuals regain their sight.
Solution:
The project will hold two three-day eye camps annually at the premises of Fatima Memorial Hospital (FMH). During these camps, patients will be examined and scheduled for lens replacement surgery over the following 12 months. Indigent patients will receive free intra-ocular lenses and necessary medications.
Long-Term Impact:
Over the course of a year, about 150 patients will regain their sight, enabling them to become independent and valuable members of their families and communities. Restoring sight not only improves the quality of life for these individuals but also reduces the economic burden on their families and enhances community well-being.
Importance of Cataract Surgery:
Restoring Vision: Cataract surgery is highly effective, with a success rate of over 95% in restoring vision. For many patients, this means a significant improvement in their ability to perform daily tasks and engage in economic activities.
Economic Impact: Blindness due to cataracts imposes a significant economic burden on families and communities. By restoring sight, cataract surgery enables individuals to return to work and contribute economically, reducing the financial strain on their families.
Quality of Life: Vision restoration dramatically improves the quality of life for patients. It enhances their ability to navigate their environment, increases independence, and boosts mental health and well-being.
Conclusion:
The NUR-Fatima Memorial System's initiative to provide free cataract surgery is a vital step towards addressing the high prevalence of cataract-induced blindness in Pakistan. By restoring sight to those in need, the project not only transforms individual lives but also strengthens families and communities. The importance of cataract surgery in improving vision, economic stability, and quality of life cannot be overstated. With continued support and funding, this initiative has the potential to make a profound and lasting impact on countless lives.
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