A total of 445 residents have benefited from specialized eye screening services offered by Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) in partnership with the Temeke Municipal Director’s Office, at the Mbagala Rangi Tatu Hospital.
Among those screened, 282 individuals—representing 63.4%—were diagnosed with various eye conditions, including poor vision, cataracts, glaucoma, eye discharge, and other related eye disorders.
This information was shared today by Prof. Mohamed Janabi, Executive Director of MNH, during his visit to Mbagala Rangi Tatu Hospital to assess the progress of the screening initiative.
He reported that of the 282 people identified with eye issues, 151 (53.6%) were found to have poor vision and were prescribed corrective glasses.
The remaining 131 individuals (46.4%) were referred for further treatment. Of those referred, 102 individuals (77.9%) will receive free treatment at MNH, while 29 (22.1%) have been referred to the Temeke Regional Referral Hospital for additional care.
Among the 131 referred patients, 58 (44.3%) were diagnosed with cataracts and will undergo minimally invasive surgery at MNH at no cost.
Additionally, 27 individuals (20.7%) were found to have eye discharge caused by allergies or prolonged sun exposure, while 14 individuals (10.7%) were diagnosed with glaucoma, along with other eye health concerns.
Dr. Mussa Ally Makori, the Medical Officer In-Charge at Mbagala Rangi Tatu Hospital, expressed his gratitude to MNH for delivering these crucial services and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to improve healthcare access for the local community.
He also highlighted the need for capacity-building initiatives for healthcare workers at the hospital. The eye screening program is set to conclude today.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to provide essential healthcare services to underserved areas, and the positive outcomes reflect the commitment to improving the health and well-being of the community.