Cataracts- A Worldwide Concern

Cataracts occur in people worldwide. Although cataracts are one of the leading causes of blindness in the world, in places such as the United States and Europe they rarely cause blindness because they are treated. However, due to low level of health education, poor economy, and lack of services, cataracts do cause significant blindness in countries such as Africa.

“When the hair turns gray, the eyes turn gray said Steven J. Mattas, MD from Bennett & Bloom Eye Centers, as he explained the philosophy of many Africans he encountered on his 10-year ophthalmic mission in Uganda where he established the country's first eye hospital.Due to funds and technology, resources treating cataracts in Africa are different from the US.”

Dr. Mattas explained that in our society, cataract surgery has evolved into a highly sophisticated technological procedure. We can accurately calculate the power of an intraocular lens implant, perform the operation through a tiny incision with the use of modern phacoemulsification equipment, and enjoy a rapid recovery. Due to the great expense and maintenance of this sophisticated equipment, this technique is impractical for use in most of Africa. There are no technical representatives available for equipment service and with most Africans having an annual income of only $200 this operation is unaffordable.

A manual cataract surgery technique is typically used in developing countries. There are no machines that require power and servicing so cost is minimal, although visual recovery takes much longer. There is another problem: many people in developing countries do not even realize they can have their cataracts removed, leaving countless people going blind.

In recognition of August as Cataract Awareness Month, Bennett & Bloom Eye Centers wants to educate people on the fact that they do not have to live with vision loss due to cataracts. We live in a country that offers the education and technology to treat such conditions as cataracts.

“There are many barriers for patients to overcome to receive cataract surgery in Africa, Dr. Mattas said.We are very fortunate in the USA to receive comparatively miraculous care. Cataract surgery with no needles, no stitch and no patch makes minimal inconvenience in our busy lives.”