By Burnett Munthali
Malawi’s leading eye health experts have raised serious concerns over the increasing number of cases of preventable blindness.
They are warning that many people are turning to unqualified practitioners and unsafe remedies.
The experts say that this troubling trend is undermining years of progress made in promoting professional eye care services.
They point out that rural and low-income communities are the most affected, as access to qualified eye specialists remains limited.
Some patients, out of desperation or misinformation, are resorting to traditional healers or homemade concoctions that worsen their conditions.
Others simply avoid seeking medical attention due to cost or distance, leading to the deterioration of minor issues into permanent blindness.
Medical professionals are calling on the government to step up efforts in public awareness campaigns about the dangers of untreated eye conditions and unverified treatments.
They are also urging authorities to invest more in eye care infrastructure and training for health workers across the country.
Eye health NGOs and advocacy groups have echoed these concerns, warning that if left unaddressed, the crisis could place an even greater burden on Malawi’s already stretched health system.
In the meantime, experts recommend that anyone experiencing vision problems seek immediate help from certified clinics or hospitals to prevent avoidable loss of sight.
