A recent screening exercise at Gomoa Buduburam in the Central Region has revealed that refractive error is the leading eye disease in the area, with 60 out of 200 persons tested found to be suffering from the condition.
Refractive error, which includes near-sightedness, far-sightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia, can lead to perpetual blindness if left untreated, experts warn.
The screening exercise was conducted by optometrists who noted that many of the patients lack the financial resources for treatment.
One such patient is Judith Adwoa Fosuaa, who lost partial sight after complications during childbirth. Despite her efforts, she has been unable to afford the required treatment.
The National Health Insurance Scheme does not cover most eye treatment procedures, and the district’s health facilities lack dedicated eye clinics and equipment, forcing patients to seek care outside the district at a high cost.
However, as part of World Refractive Error Week, Point Hope Ghana, a non-profit organization, provided free treatment to some patients in the district.
The Country Director of Point Hope Ghana, Adam Sandow, is calling on the government to scale up interventions in eye health, including establishing eye clinics at public health facilities and providing necessary equipment.
“This will encourage people to seek prompt treatment for eye diseases,” he said.
The organization is urging residents to prioritize eye care and get regular check-ups to prevent refractive error and other eye diseases.
By: Akwasi Addo | Metrotvonline.com | Ghana
