The Head of Ophthalmology at the Ghana Health Service has revealed that more than 95% of Ghanaians requiring corrective eyewear cannot afford it, leading to a significant rise in vision impairment and blindness. Despite the availability of treatments like glasses or lenses, the high costs have left millions without access to these basic eye care needs.
Preventable conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy are among the leading causes of blindness in Ghana. Cataracts, particularly prevalent among the elderly, cause clouding of the eye lens, while glaucoma silently damages the optic nerve, often without early symptoms. The situation is dire, as these diseases can be easily treated with early intervention.
To combat this crisis, the Ghana Health Service is expanding its free eye screening services to rural areas. This initiative aims to reach underserved populations and reduce the burden of untreated vision problems. Regular screenings for conditions like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy can help detect issues early, potentially saving thousands from severe vision loss.
With World Sight Day approaching, the Ghana Health Service is calling for increased funding and awareness campaigns to make eye care more accessible. A collaborative approach between the government, NGOs, and international organizations is crucial to addressing the affordability and accessibility of eye care in the country.