Eye Health in Nepal: Common Problems and Prevention Strategies

Learn about common eye health problems in Nepal and effective strategies for preventing vision loss. Protect your eyes with these tips and stay informed on local eye care services.

Eye health is a major public health issue in Nepal, where preventable conditions like cataracts, refractive errors, and infections lead to high vision impairment rates. The Nepal Blindness Survey indicates that over 90% of blindness in the country is preventable or treatable. Regular eye check-ups, proper nutrition, and protective practices can help avoid many vision problems. This article will examine common eye health issues in Nepal and offer strategies for maintaining good eye health.

1. Common Eye Problems in Nepal

Several preventable and treatable eye conditions affect the population of Nepal. Here are the most prevalent issues:

Cataracts: Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in Nepal, accounting for more than 60% of cases . A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurred vision. Cataracts are often related to aging but can also result from prolonged exposure to UV light, diabetes, and malnutrition.
Refractive Errors: Refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism, are common in both children and adults. These conditions can usually be corrected with eyeglasses or contact lenses but are often undiagnosed due to lack of access to eye care services in rural areas .
Glaucoma: Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to high eye pressure. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent blindness. Regular eye exams are crucial for early detection and management, as glaucoma often presents no symptoms in its early stages .
Corneal Infections: Infections like corneal ulcers, often caused by improper use of contact lenses or eye injuries, are also common in Nepal. These infections can lead to scarring and vision loss if not treated promptly .

Quick Fact: The Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology in Kathmandu has been a global leader in providing affordable cataract surgeries and has contributed to reducing blindness in Nepal .

2. Prevention Strategies for Eye Health

Maintaining good eye health requires a proactive approach that includes regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and protecting your eyes from environmental hazards. Here are some strategies to keep your vision sharp:

Regular Eye Check-ups: Early detection is key to preventing serious eye problems. Even if you don’t have symptoms, getting an eye exam at least once every two years is essential. For people with diabetes, more frequent check-ups may be necessary due to the risk of diabetic retinopathy .
Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can increase the risk of cataracts and other eye problems. Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UV rays is crucial when spending time outdoors, especially in Nepal’s higher altitudes, where UV exposure is more intense .
Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet: Good nutrition plays an important role in maintaining eye health. Foods rich in Vitamin A, such as carrots and leafy greens, are essential for preventing night blindness and maintaining the health of the retina. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, are also beneficial for preventing dry eyes and maintaining overall eye health .
Avoid Smoking: Smoking is a major risk factor for eye conditions like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Quitting smoking can reduce your risk of developing these conditions and improve overall eye health .
Practice Good Hygiene: Always wash your hands before touching your eyes, especially if you wear contact lenses. Proper care of contact lenses is crucial to prevent infections and corneal ulcers. If you experience any irritation, redness, or pain, seek medical advice immediately .

Quick Tip: Make a habit of wearing sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors to protect your eyes from UV rays, especially if you spend time in the mountains or at higher altitudes.

3. Local Eye Health Services in Nepal

Fortunately, there are several eye health services and programs in Nepal that aim to reduce the prevalence of vision impairment:

Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology: Based in Kathmandu, Tilganga is a leading provider of affordable eye care, offering cataract surgeries, vision screenings, and treatment for various eye conditions . The institute also produces low-cost intraocular lenses, making cataract surgeries more accessible to people in need.
Nepal Eye Program: This program has been instrumental in establishing eye care centers across rural Nepal, offering vision screenings, treatments, and surgeries at little to no cost.
Community-Based Eye Care Programs: These programs, run by local NGOs, focus on raising awareness about eye health and providing essential eye care services to underserved populations.

Quick Fact: Nepal’s National Trachoma Program was successful in eliminating trachoma as a public health problem in 2018, a significant achievement in reducing infectious causes of blindness.

Eye health is critical for maintaining quality of life, and many common eye problems in Nepal are preventable or treatable with early intervention. By adopting healthy habits, protecting your eyes from UV rays, and getting regular eye check-ups, you can reduce your risk of vision impairment. If you notice any changes in your vision, seek medical attention promptly to address potential issues before they worsen.

References:

Nepal Blindness Survey. (2019). Eye Health in Nepal: Prevalence and Causes.
World Health Organization (WHO). (2021). Prevention of Blindness and Visual Impairment.
Tilganga Institute of Ophthalmology. (2020). Cataract Surgery and Vision Programs.
National Eye Health Program, Nepal. (2020). Eye Health Services and Community Programs.
American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2021). Preventive Eye Care: UV Protection and Nutrition.