In a bid to tackle the province’s cataract surgery backlog, Mpumalanga’s Health MEC, Sasekani Manzini, launched a 100-day cataract surgery marathon at Tonga Hospital on, September 27, 2024. The initiative aims to provide critical care to those suffering from cataracts, restoring their vision and improving their overall quality of life.

The campaign targets patients who have been waiting for cataract surgeries due to the extensive backlog that has accumulated in recent years. Manzini expressed optimism about the impact this effort would have in reducing the waiting period for cataract surgeries in the province. The provincial eyecare team, which includes health professionals and ophthalmologists, was set to screen and perform biometry for around 300 patients on the day of the launch alone.

“We are optimistic about the programme’s success and its desired outcomes, specifically the early treatment of cataracts to prevent vision impairment,” Manzini said during the launch. She stressed that cataract treatment is essential to prevent further deterioration of patients’ vision and to avoid permanent blindness.

Cataracts are a common condition, particularly among the elderly, where the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to impaired vision. If left untreated, cataracts can result in blindness. The 100-day marathon is designed to fast-track treatment for those on the waiting list, ensuring that patients receive timely surgeries to prevent further vision loss.

The program also includes comprehensive patient screenings, biometry assessments, and post-surgery care, making it a well-rounded initiative aimed at tackling the root causes of blindness due to cataracts.

One of the beneficiaries of the programme, Maria Hlatshwayo from Block B, expressed her immense gratitude to the Department of Health for launching the initiative. “I was nearly blind, and my vision was severely impaired,” Hlatshwayo said. “But after undergoing cataract surgery at Tonga Hospital, my vision has returned, and I can now see and read clearly again.” Her experience is just one of many, as hundreds of patients are expected to undergo the surgery in the coming weeks.

The success of the programme will be measured not only by the number of surgeries performed but also by the long-term impact on the lives of patients who would otherwise continue to suffer from preventable blindness.

Manzini urged elderly residents to prioritise regular medical check-ups, highlighting the importance of early detection of health issues like cataracts. “Regular health screenings and early detection are key to improving the quality of life and extending life expectancy, especially for our elderly population,” she said.

The 100-day cataract surgery marathon also underscores the Department of Health’s commitment to improving healthcare access for residents of Mpumalanga. Manzini emphasised the department’s dedication to ensuring that no one is left behind in receiving essential medical care.

As the marathon progresses, the Department of Health will continue to engage with communities to raise awareness about the importance of eye health and early treatment. The initiative is expected to significantly reduce the surgical backlog and restore vision to many patients who have been waiting for life-changing surgery.

With this initiative, the province is taking a critical step toward enhancing the quality of healthcare services and improving the lives of individuals who are most in need of medical attention.