Many residents aged 40- years and above in Matsangoni, Kilifi North Sub County are suffering from various eye diseases due to terminal illnesses including diabetes and high blood pressure.
Most of them are unaware that they are suffering from the illnesses beside eye problems due to their poor living conditions.
The administrator of Mephi Hospital in Kilifi town, Rita Mukhongo told a free eye-camp at Matsangoni area in Kilifi County where more than 250 residents turned up for treatment that the elderly over 40 years old in the Matsangoni area are suffering from various eye diseases caused by diabetes and high blood pressure without any knowledge.
“Most patients are over 40 years and lack enough knowledge that they can access health services hence they go blind with time,” Mukhongo said adding, “We have booked the patients who require eye surgery and will be attended to in the course of the week at our facility.”
Emmanuel Kazungu Kombe, a resident of Mpenda Kula Village in Matsangoni who has suffered from eye problems for 10 years expressed his joy having received free treatment during the camp.
Priscar Mapenzi Yaa from Mkongani village of Kararacha in Matsangoni who also accompanied her son to get the services said she received treatment and spectacles which will help her in day to day activities like reading the Bible.”
She said her son also has trouble seeing during the day because he claims too much light is affecting his vision.
By Treeza Auma and Harrison Yeri
