Embu: Hundreds of Embu residents have benefitted from a free eye medical camp organised by Lions Club Embu in conjunction with Rotary Club. The one-day camp held on Saturday at Lion School in Embu Town saw patients screened for various eyesight problems such as cataracts, refractive errors, photosensitivity, and age-related problems.
According to Kenya News Agency, Ophthalmic Clinical Officer Lilian Nyaga stated that some of the cases noted among the ageing group included diabetic retinopathy, macular holes, and some suspicious growths that were referred for specialised treatment. Among the young people, the most prevalent cases were refractive errors, allergies, and photosensitivity, often attributed to the overuse of digital gadgets.
Nyaga advised young people to reduce the time spent on digital devices and to use them at a safe distance from the eyes to protect against harmful UltraViolet (UV) radiation. She recommended the use of photochromic glasses designed to shield the eyes from these harmful rays.
For those requiring cataract surgery, Nyaga mentioned that they are currently consolidating a list of cases to be addressed in the future.
She also emphasized the importance of a healthy and balanced diet rich in vitamin A to maintain good eyesight. During the camp, individuals with reading problems received free glasses, while those with minor ailments such as allergies or infections were provided with eye drops.
Beneficiaries described the opportunity as life-changing, as it improved their vision without the financial burden typically associated with such procedures. Patient Richer Ireri expressed gratitude, sharing that he had struggled with blurry vision and was now able to see far objects clearly after receiving treatment and corrective glasses.
Lions Club Embu President Chandrakant Patel highlighted that this is an annual event aimed at giving back to the community.