MORE than 90 out of 900 patients who received eye treatment last week in Chalinze, Coast Region, underwent surgeries for various conditions, including cataract.

The free treatments were offered at Chalinze Health Centre through collaboration between Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH)-Mloganzila and Republic of Korea’s Vision Care Institute.

Dr Audrey Mwashilemo, an ophthalmologist at MNH-Mloganzila, stated that out of the 900 patients screened, over 90 underwent surgeries for different eye conditions. She mentioned that some patients were diagnosed with various vision problems and were provided with treatment, medication and eyeglasses tailored to their specific needs.

“We commend the people for responding to the call and attending this camp. We’ve seen people coming from Kilimanjaro, Morogoro, Arusha, Iringa, Mbeya and Dar es Salaam regions,” she said.

Some attendees expressed their gratitude to MNH and Chalinze MP Ridhiwani Kikwete for facilitating the free medical services, and urged them to continue bringing such services to the people.

The free eye screening and treatment coincided with World Sight Day, which is celebrated annually on the second Wednesday of October. This year’s theme was “Love Your Eyes, Encourage Your Child to Love Their Eyes.”