In Maharashtra, the number of corneal transplants experienced a decline of 72 per cent during the pandemic, with only 847 procedures conducted in 2020-2021 compared to 3058 in the preceding year
In a significant development during the ongoing National Eye Donation Fortnight, experts at Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital have reported a remarkable 50 per cent increase in eye donation numbers following the pandemic. This trajectory underscores a positive transformation in public consciousness and perspectives towards the act of eye donation, profoundly contributing to the noble endeavor of sight restoration and overall life enhancement.
“Corneal blindness affects a significant number of individuals, with approximately 1.2 lakh people in need of corneal transplants to regain their sight. Corneal transplantation through eye donation stands as the sole avenue to restore vision and significantly enhance the quality of life for these individuals. Every donated eye has the potential to restore the gift of sight and illuminate the lives of those living in darkness. By pledging to donate their eyes after death, individuals can leave a lasting legacy that continues to impact lives even after they are gone”, said, Dr Minal D Kanhere, Cornea, Cataract & Refractive Surgeon, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, Chembur.
Dr Kanhere further added, “Eye donation plays a pivotal role in saving and improving lives. According to experts, major causes of blindness in India include cataract (66 per cent), corneal diseases (15 per cent), retinal disorders (6 per cent), and glaucoma (5 per cent). Shockingly, up to 93 per cent of blindness and 97 per cent of visual impairment cases can be attributed to avoidable causes.”
In Maharashtra, the number of corneal transplants experienced a decline of 72 per cent during the pandemic, with only 847 procedures conducted in 2020-2021 compared to 3058 in the preceding year. However, the post-pandemic period has witnessed a steady recovery, reflecting a positive shift in the collective mindset towards eye donation. Currently, nearly 1,300 corneal blind individuals are awaiting transplants in Maharashtra. The pandemic had a substantial impact on eye donation, causing an 80 per cent drop in donations between 2019-2020 and 2020-2021. However, the numbers are now on an upward trajectory. Despite this increase, only half of the collected corneas are fit for transplants, with the rest utilised for research purposes. Overcoming challenges such as lack of awareness, family opposition, and misconceptions requires a concerted effort. Raising awareness through social media, newspapers, community health talks, eye donation walks, and public demonstrations can contribute to surmounting these hurdles.
With the objective of creating awareness about the importance of eye donation, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital orchestrated a rally that drew crowd of nearly 150 participants.