Written By | BK Mugizi
Nearly two-thirds of the beneficiaries were schoolchildren, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment of eye conditions among learners.
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SHEEMA
More than 1,500 residents of Sheema District have received free eye screening and treatment during a three-day medical camp aimed at improving access to eye care and preventing avoidable blindness.
Nearly two-thirds of the beneficiaries were schoolchildren, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment of eye conditions among learners.
The annual camp, organised by Sheema residents Peter Abaine and Fred Mugabe in partnership with Doctors of Overseas Pakistan Global Foundation-Africa, was conducted at Kitagata General Hospital, Mabaare Health Centre III and Kigarama Health Centre III.
The medical team screened and treated patients with various eye conditions, while those requiring specialised care were referred to appropriate health facilities. Some beneficiaries also received free spectacles.
Kaparacha John, one of the beneficiaries, thanked Abaine and Mugabe for organising the camp, saying the intervention had restored his ability to see clearly.
“I came when I could not see well, but I was treated and given free spectacles, and now I can see clearly,” he said.
He commended the organisers for bringing the services closer to the community, particularly for people who might otherwise be unable to afford eye examinations, treatment and spectacles.
Dr Denis Nsubuga, the lead doctor from Doctors of Overseas Pakistan Global Foundation-Africa, said early detection and treatment of eye conditions were particularly important among school-going children.
He said undetected vision problems could affect children's learning, classroom participation and daily activities, making regular eye examinations and timely treatment essential.
Dr Violah Alunga, an eye disease expert, cautioned residents against self-medication and urged those experiencing eye problems to seek professional medical attention.
She said using inappropriate eye drops or other substances without a proper diagnosis could worsen some conditions and delay effective treatment.
Coleb Tashobya, the in-charge of Mabaare Health Centre III, thanked the medical team for extending eye care services to the community but urged the organisers to consider holding similar camps in schools.
He said school-based medical camps would help identify learners with vision problems early and enable them to access appropriate treatment before their conditions affected their education.
