Free cataract surgeries for 415

By Gloria Ezeja

Our eyes are the only entrance to literal light, yet, approximately 1.8 million Nigerians live in darkness due to blindness with cataract being the leading cause. Recently, we screened more than 800 patients with around 500 diagnosed with cataracts and over 400 requiring surgery.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that cataracts are the leading cause of vision impairment or blindness worldwide with 65.2 million people suffering from vision impairment or blindness caused by cataracts, globally.

A cataract is an eye condition characterized by a clouding of the lens of the eye that affects vision. It's a progressive condition where the lens becomes opaque, causing blurry vision. Cataracts are commonly age-related, with a greater percentage (65%) occurring in patients aged 60 and above, it could also be congenital (from birth), caused by trauma(injuries) and could result from medical conditions like diabetes. Basically, surgery is the only effective treatment for cataract.

This is where this special partnership between GB Foods Nigeria, the Elena Barraquer Foundation and Niger Foundation Hospital has been able to bridge the financial gap among people who are unable to afford the surgery bills of this procedure. The Elena Foundation, in collaboration with Niger Foundation Hospital Enugu and a generous sponsorship from GB foods, provided free cataract surgeries to over 400 cataract patients. From August 26th through September 21st, 2024, our team screened 800+ patients, conducted surgeries for 415 cataract patients and individuals were empowered with restored vision. Its been a fulfilling and rewarding experience.

We're proud to be part of this transformative project, empowering the populace, giving them a healthy eye sight and preventing possible blindness from cataract. We hope to stay on the course to promoting all round health to Nigerians. !