Cataract beneficiary praises government

The Ministry of Health has commenced a one-week eye screening and free cataract‑surgery exercise in Siavonga District aimed at improving access to eye‑care services in the area. The exercise, which is being conducted at Siavonga District Hospital and selected health facilities,…

The Ministry of Health has commenced a one-week eye screening and free cataract‑surgery exercise in Siavonga District aimed at improving access to eye‑care services in the area.

The exercise, which is being conducted at Siavonga District Hospital and selected health facilities, is targeting people with various eye conditions with particular emphasis on cataracts.

Speaking during the launch of the exercise, Lead Ophthalmologist Juliet Mulenga said early detection and treatment of eye problems is critical in preventing permanent blindness.

Dr Mulenga encouraged members of the public, especially the elderly, to take advantage of the free services being offered during the campaign.

One of the beneficiaries, a 57-year-old Virginia Masalabanda of Kabbyobyo in Simamba Ward, who had been unable to see with her left eye due to cataracts for a period of nine months, expressed gratitude to the government and the medical team for restoring her sight.

She also encouraged people experiencing similar eye problems to visit the hospital regularly, adding that the surgery procedures are not as complicated as many believe, and urged affected individuals to seek help so they can recover.

And Siavonga District Senior Nursing Officer in Charge, Agrippa Mudenda, said the hospital is ready to attend to all patients who come for screening during the week.

He said the ministry is providing free services such as comprehensive eye examinations, vision testing, refraction, cataract screening and identification, as well as free cataract surgery for eligible patients.

Mr Mudenda pointed out that the outreach is part of the government’s commitment to decongest hospitals and bring specialised eye‑care services closer to communities across the district.

He noted that myths surrounding cataracts and other eye conditions are not true, and urged residents to ignore such misconceptions and take advantage of the free eye‑screening services instead of waiting for their conditions to worsen before seeking medical attention.