Cataract is a clouding of the natural lens in the eye. It is one of the leading causes of blindness in the world and in India. Which impacts the quality of life of millions of people around the world. According to the National Institute of Health, every year five million people lose their sight due to Cataract in India. In India, an estimated 20 million people have cataract, making it the leading cause of blindness in the country.
Cataract is a really important problem in India, which affects a large number of people.
Know why the condition of cataract is becoming serious in India
1 It can happen to a person of any age
Contrary to popular belief, cataracts do not have to occur solely due to age-related causes and can be infected with congenital cataracts or can form sometime after birth.
Also, when certain things injure your eye, a cataract can form. This type is more complicated to treat because the structures surrounding the lens may also need to be repaired.
2 Lack of Awareness
Many individuals in rural areas of India lack awareness about eye health and conditions such as cataracts. They may not recognize the symptoms or do not understand that cataracts can be successfully treated through surgery.
3 Limited access to health services
Access to high-quality eye care services is a challenge in many parts of India, especially in rural areas. There is a shortage of eye care professionals, including ophthalmologists, and medical facilities may be few or far away. This lack of access prevents people from seeking timely diagnosis and treatment for treatment.
4 economic factors are also responsible:
Poverty and economic restrictions play into the major causes of cataracts. The cost of cataract surgery and postoperative care can be a barrier for many individuals, especially those in the lower-income group. Therefore, people may delay or forgo treatment due to financial limitations.
5 Infrastructure Challenges:
India’s vast geography and diverse population pose challenges to infrastructure for healthcare delivery. Suitable facilities, equipment and trained personnel may not be available for cataract surgery in remote and rural areas, making it difficult to provide timely and efficient treatment.
6 Superstitions also become obstacles:
Cultural beliefs and superstitions can influence people’s attitudes toward cataract surgery. Some people may have misconceptions about the procedure or concerns about its consequences, leading to reluctance to seek treatment.
A multi security level approach is needed to address the cataract problem in India. This requires awareness campaigns, improved health infrastructure, access to quality eye care services and initiatives to make cataract surgery affordable and accessible to all sections of society.
Efforts are being made by the government, non-profit organizations and various stakeholders to address this issue and ensure that people receive timely treatment for cataract. However, due to the vastness and diversity of India’s population, it is a complex issue that requires sustained efforts to effectively address it.
Here are some things that can be helpful in reducing the burden of cataract in India
Raising awareness for the importance of treatment: This can be done through advertising awareness campaigns, training for healthcare personnel and outreach programs with the community.
Increasing access to cataract surgery: This can be done by increasing the number of trained surgeons, providing surgery free or at low cost, and making it easier for people to travel to receive surgery.
reducing economic factors This can be done by improving access to health services, education and economic opportunities.
By taking these steps, India can make significant progress in reducing the burden of cataracts and improve the lives of millions.
Read this also – Eye drops: Eye drops that bring fake tears can take away eyesight, CDC warns
