•Dr Priscilia Imade
As we continue our April series on avoidable blindness, today we focus on cataract, the leading cause of avoidable blindness in Nigeria and across the world.
Blindness is often feared as a permanent loss, yet in many cases, it is preventable or treatable. Cataract is a clear example of this reality.
Despite advances in modern medicine, many Nigerians still lose their sight from cataract simply because they do not access timely care.
WHAT IS CATARACT?
Cataract is the clouding of the natural lens of the eye. Normally, this lens is clear and helps to focus light on the retina, allowing us to see clearly. When cataract develops, the lens becomes cloudy, leading to:
• Blurred or dim vision
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Sensitivity to light and glare
• Fading or yellowing of colours
• Frequent changes in glasses.
If left untreated, cataract can progress to complete blindness.
WHY CATARACT IS A MAJOR PROBLEM IN NIGERIA
Cataract accounts for nearly half of all blindness cases in Nigeria. This is particularly concerning because it is treatable through a simple surgical procedure.
Several factors contribute to its high burden:
1) Aging population: Cataract is more common in older adults.
2) Limited access to eye care: Many rural communities lack eye care services.
3) Cost of surgery: Though effective, surgery is still unaffordable for many.
4) Poor awareness: Some people believe vision loss is a normal part of aging.
5) Fear and myths: Misconceptions about eye surgery delay treatment.
As a result, many people live unnecessarily with poor vision or blindness.
CATARACT IS TREATABLE
Unlike many other causes of blindness, cataract can be effectively treated with surgery. The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens, restoring vision often within a short time.
Cataract surgery is:
• Safe and quick
• Highly successful
• One of the most cost-effective medical procedures.
With proper care, patients can return to normal daily activities and regain independence.
PREVENTION AND EARLY ACTION
While cataract cannot always be prevented, its impact can be greatly reduced through early detection and timely treatment.
Here are key steps to protect your vision:
1. Regular eye examination: Especially for individuals above 40 years.
2. Early diagnosis: Do not ignore symptoms like blurred vision or glare.
3. Protect your eyes: Use sunglasses to reduce ultraviolet exposure.
4. Manage health conditions: Control diabetes and hypertension.
5. Seek professional care: Avoid self-medication or harmful traditional practices.
Reducing cataract blindness in Nigeria requires a collective effort:
• Increased public awareness
• Expansion of affordable surgical services
• Community outreach programs
• Government and private sector support
No one should go blind from cataract in this day and age.
CONCLUSION
Cataract remains the leading cause of avoidable blindness in Nigeria, yet it is also one of the easiest to treat. The tragedy is not the disease itself, but the lack of timely intervention.
Clear vision is essential for quality of life, productivity and dignity.
By prioritising eye health, encouraging regular eye examination and embracing available treatment, we can drastically reduce the burden of cataract blindness in our society.
Sight is priceless. Cataract should not take it away when the solution is within reach.
*Dr Priscilia Imade is CEO, Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. E-mail: moderneyecliniclagos@gmail.com
Another edition of the column returns on Monday in The Frontier.
