Experts Warn of Risks from Unsafe Eye Treatments in Malawi

Eye health experts in Malawi are warning against unsafe and unverified eye treatments, attributing rising rates of preventable blindness to these practices. Mwachumu Chipala from the Medical Council of Malawi stressed the need for patients to only seek care from trained specialists. Additionally, the Malawi Optometry Association highlighted the lack of contact lens availability in public hospitals as a significant gap in eye care services.

Eye health professionals in Malawi are raising significant concerns regarding the increasing popularity of dubious and unverified eye treatments. This alarming trend, they say, is contributing to a rise in cases of preventable blindness across the nation. During the 25th Annual General Meeting of the Malawi Optometry Association, Mwachumu Chipala, the Compliance Officer from the Medical Council of Malawi, emphasized the necessity of consulting only licensed eye specialists for treatment.

Chipala pointed out a frustrating reality: “One of our biggest challenges is that people are turning to untrained individuals for eye care.” He further cautioned that dangerous practices, such as using unverified substances during eye infections like pink eye, could have disastrous outcomes. “The eye is one of the most delicate organs; once it’s damaged, there’s no replacing it,” he added, underlining the grave risks involved.

Additionally, the meeting underlined the importance of compliance with the Medical Practitioners and Dentists Act, stressing that all eye care practitioners should register with the relevant authorities. This adherence to established professional ethics is essential in safeguarding patients’ health and well-being.

Cassim Adams, the Chairperson of the Malawi Optometry Association, pointed out a significant gap in the eye care services available in Malawi: the lack of contact lenses in public hospitals. “We commend the government for its efforts in providing surgical camps and glasses,” he acknowledged, yet insisted, “contact lenses are just as essential, especially for patients recovering from eye injuries.”

Adams, who practices optometry in Mzimba, detailed how therapeutic lenses, often referred to as bandage contact lenses, serve vital functions. They not only safeguard injured eyes but also promote healing and improve vision simultaneously. Given this, the Malawi Optometry Association is urging the Ministry of Health and other development partners to incorporate contact lens services into the national healthcare framework.

The association believes that such an integration would significantly elevate the standard of eye care available, impacting the lives of thousands afflicted with a variety of eye conditions.

In an era where eye health has become paramount, particularly due to increased reliance on technology, the urgent message from experts cannot be ignored. Those requiring eye care must approach qualified professionals and recognize the risks posed by unregulated treatments.

The meeting stands as a crucial reminder of the importance of adhering to best practices in eye care, as Malawi faces challenges that require immediate attention from both healthcare providers and patients alike.

In conclusion, Malawian eye health professionals are sounding the alarm on the rising dangers posed by unverified eye treatments that are leading to cases of avoidable blindness. The Malawi Optometry Association has called for stricter regulation and highlighted the critical need for contact lenses in public hospitals. Ensuring proper care through trained specialists is essential to protecting the delicate nature of eye health in the country.

Original Source: www.nyasatimes.com