95% of Blindness in Jigawa Avoidable – Report

A research study conducted by eye experts on the prevalence and causes of avoidable blindness in Jigawa State has revealed that 95% of blindness cases are avoidable and can be reduced to the barest minimum.
The findings were presented during the dissemination meeting of the Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB7) report in Jigawa State.

The project was supported by the German Cooperation Eye Intervention Project and implemented by HANDS/CBM.

The report, read by one of the lead researchers, Dr Abubakar Tafida, an eye consultant, revealed that the current prevalence of blindness in the state, particularly among people aged 50 and above, stands at 2.9%, representing approximately 19,530 people.

Cataracts were identified as the main cause of blindness, with only 8.0% of patients having access to appropriate and effective eye surgery and other required treatments.

However, cost barriers, low public awareness and a shortage of workforce (eye specialists) at public facilities were among the major problems hindering the campaign to improve access to basic eye healthcare in Jigawa State.

The report suggested that subsidising eye surgery or making it free of charge, alongside collaborative efforts among the Government, specialists, donor partners, civil society, community leaders, and the general public, would help address the challenges and reduce the prevalence of blindness to the minimum level in the state.

In his speech on the occasion, the Federal Minister of Health, Prof. Aliyu Pate, who was represented by Dr Chimezie Obi-Mgbam, Director of the Federal Ministry of Health and Humanitarian Affairs, reiterated the federal Government’s commitment to joining hands with all partners to promote Universal Health Coverage, which includes eye healthcare services at all levels.

In his response, the Jigawa State Commissioner for Health, Dr Abdullahi Kainuwa, stated that the state government has been taking significant measures to ensure that cost does not become a barrier to accessing basic healthcare services.

He noted that over 250,000 less privileged individuals are currently registered in the healthcare social security insurance scheme. In contrast, over 180 primary healthcare facilities, as well as general and specialist hospitals, have been renovated and equipped with modern equipment to ensure access to healthcare services for all.