Eye experts have identified cataracts as one of the leading causes of vision impairment worldwide, affecting millions of people of all ages and significantly impacts an individual’s quality of life. Therefore, they said proper eye care is important and necessary towards maintaining optimal eye health.

In a bid to support this, the Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), in partnership with the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation (TCF), recently organised a free eye care drive in Eastern Obolo LGA of Akwa Ibom to inaugurate its Sustainable Primary Eye Care Service (SPECS) Programme.

Executive Chairman, Eastern Obolo LGA, Abraham Odion, the Executive Secretary, Health Insurance Agency, Akwa Ibom State, Dr. Igbemi Arthur and the Paramount Ruler of Eastern Obolo, HRM Ubong Harry John Etetor Ilile (IX), were all present at the drive to encourage residents to come forward and about148 people benefited from eye screening tests and treatment.

In succession to this event, VCDF plans to continue offering cataract treatment to the over 600 community members above 40 years of age and administering surgical operations for 250 cases of severity within the next 3–4 months.

During the event, Abraham Odion, the Executive Chairman of Eastern Obolo LGA said both VCDF and TCF have taken up this initiative to uplift the host communities through this medical camp, and is a significant step forward in the efforts to cure eye related sicknesses, ensuring a brighter future for them and they are grateful.

Cataracts may not go away on their own; rather, they worsen with time. The goal of VCDF and TCF in providing surgical operations for cataract removal is to stop the disease from affecting the vision.
Dr. Igbemi Arthur on his part said the program will motivate them to prioritise routine eye check-ups that will help preserve their eyesight and understand the importance of eye health.

VCDF and TCF are dedicated to advancing host communities with sustainable development programmes and enriching all aspects of community health.