Bengaluru, 4th September 2023 :
Dr Ravi Dorairaj, Regional Head Clinical Services, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital Bengaluru & Dr Anupama Janardhan, Pediatric Ophthalmologist Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital Bengaluru.
Distinguished experts in the field of ophthalmology have raised a red flag on a pressing concern that has the potential to impede corneal transplantations in India. A shortage of available donor eyes, crucial for successful transplant procedures, has emerged as a challenge casting a shadow over the landscape of ocular healthcare. The experts expressed their concern at an impactful awareness walkathon in Bengaluru, organised by Dr. Agarwals Eye Hospital, a leading chain of eye hospital in India. The event was a part of the ongoing National Eye Donation Fortnight campaign, aimed at encouraging people to pledge their eyes and make a profound impact on the lives of those suffering from vision impairment.
Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital has been actively engaged in zone-wise activities to amplify the awareness about eye donation. Rallies like cyclathon, walkathon, human chain formations, and informative talks have been organized in various other parts of Bengaluru, Mysore, Belgaum, Davangere & Hubli-Dharwad, with the participation of prominent individuals, to underscore the importance of this cause.
Dr Ravi Dorairaj, Regional Head Clinical Services, Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital Bengaluru emphasized that the need for eye donations in India is highlighted by the prevalence of common causes of blindness and visual impairment, including cataracts, refractive errors, retinal diseases, corneal disorders, and glaucoma. For individuals with corneal blindness, the possibility of regaining functional vision through corneal transplantation surgery is a promising solution. However, a significant shortage of donated eyes has hindered the number of corneal transplants performed each year.
Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital aims to bridge this gap by actively promoting eye donation, but the effort requires collective engagement. The lack of awareness, limited involvement by essential stakeholders like social workers and paramedical staff, and regulatory considerations have contributed to the challenges faced in increasing eye donations. Religious beliefs and misconceptions further influence donation rates.
The hospital emphasizes the role of education in sensitizing the masses about eye donation and the proper procedure. Integration of eye donation awareness into the educational curriculum, collaboration with healthcare workers, paramedical staff, social workers, and various societal segments is essential to drive a positive change in this regard.
In Dr Agarwals Eye Bank, during the period of 2022-2023, a total of 5,521 eyes were donated from Karnataka, out of which 1,821 corneas were successfully used for transplants. However, only half of the collected corneas are deemed suitable for transplantation due to various factors. By raising awareness and dispelling myths, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital aims to increase both the number of donations and the successful utilization of donated corneas says Dr Ravi Dorairaj, Regional Head Clinical Services , Dr Agarwals Eye Hospital.
Technological advancements, such as PDEK & CAIRS, have introduced new dimensions to cornea transplantation, ensuring better outcomes for patients. Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital is at the forefront of these innovations, contributing to enhanced results in suitable candidates says Dr Ravi
Through the act of eye donation, individuals have the power to grant the “gift of sight” to those deprived of it. Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital urges everyone to consider pledging their eyes and contributing to the spread of awareness about this vital cause.