Malawi Experts Warn of Rising Blindness Due to Unsafe Eye Treatments

Malawi’s eye health experts warn against unsafe, unverified treatments that could lead to increased blindness. They called for strict regulations and highlighted the absence of contact lenses in public hospitals, urging the government to improve eye care services.

Eye health professionals in Malawi are expressing serious concerns regarding the increasing trend of unsafe and unverified eye treatments. During the 25th Annual General Meeting of the Malawi Optometry Association, they warned that such practices are contributing to a noticeable rise in avoidable blindness among the population. The compliance officer from the Medical Council of Malawi, Mwachumu Chipala, highlighted that the public is increasingly seeking help from untrained individuals, which poses significant risks to their eye health.

Chipala made clear that many individuals are being influenced to use unknown substances during common outbreaks, such as pink eye. He stressed the severity of this practice, noting, “The eye is one of the most delicate organs; once it’s damaged, there’s no replacing it.” This message serves as a crucial reminder for anyone seeking eye care to ensure that they consult only with properly trained professionals to safeguard their vision.

Furthermore, the meeting addressed the pressing need for all eye care practitioners to register with medical authorities and adhere strictly to the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act, as well as established professional ethics. Participants recognized these regulations as key components in promoting safe and effective eye care practices across the country.

Cassim Adams, the Chairperson of the Malawi Optometry Association, brought attention to another significant shortfall in the country’s eye care system—the lack of contact lenses available in public hospitals. Adams emphasized the importance of contact lenses as a necessary provision alongside surgical camps and glasses provided by the government. He indicated that while the nation has made strides, there’s still a critical need for therapeutic lenses, particularly for patients recovering from eye injuries.

Specifically, therapeutic or bandage contact lenses are vital in protecting and aiding the healing of injured eyes while simultaneously enhancing vision. In light of this need, the Malawi Optometry Association is advocating for the Ministry of Health and development partners to consider incorporating contact lens services into the national healthcare system. They believe that doing so has the potential to significantly elevate the standard of care for countless individuals suffering from various eye conditions.

In summary, eye health experts in Malawi have raised alarm bells over the dangers of unqualified eye treatments leading to rising cases of avoidable blindness. With calls for stricter regulations and the introduction of contact lens services, the country is urged to bolster its eye care system. This could ultimately play a crucial role in improving the health and vision of many Malawians.

Original Source: www.nyasatimes.com