Mirpur: On the occasion of the 18th death anniversary of former Prime Minister of Pakistan, Daughter of the East Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, a free eye camp was organised at Central Jail Mirpur through the joint efforts of the District Health Office Mirpur and Muslim Hand.
District Health Officer Mirpur, Dr Fida Hussain Raja, attended the camp as a special participant. Professor Dr Muhammad Waseem Khan, Head of Department, Divisional Headquarters Hospital Mirpur, along with his medical team, also took part in the initiative. DIG Prisons Irshad Hussain Jarral, Programme Head Muslim Hand Muhammad Suleman with his team, Incharge Jail Dispensary Dr Jawad Ayub, Assistant Director Surveillance Muhammad Riaz, Programme Manager Muslim Hand Javed-ul-Hassan, medical technicians Khizar Hayat and Aurangzeb Chaudhry, along with other staff members, were also present.
During the camp, it was highlighted that eye diseases and visual impairment affect more than two billion people worldwide. Common eye conditions include refractive errors such as near-sightedness, far-sightedness and astigmatism, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, presbyopia, conjunctivitis, night blindness and blepharitis. Many eye diseases are linked to broader health conditions that affect other parts of the body, making early diagnosis and timely treatment crucial.
Medical experts stressed that regular eye examinations are essential for the early detection and management of eye diseases. Adults should undergo a comprehensive eye examination every two years, while individuals over the age of 60 should have annual check-ups.
During the camp, approximately 425 inmates were screened for eye-related problems, while around 200 patients underwent detailed examinations. Affected inmates were provided with eye drops and spectacles as per medical requirements, and two patients underwent on-the-spot eye surgery.
Speaking on the occasion, DIG Prisons Irshad Hussain Jarral said the day was particularly significant as the camp was organised on a holiday, ensuring that all inmates were present in their barracks, which made comprehensive screening possible. He expressed gratitude to the District Health Office, Professor Dr Muhammad Waseem Khan and his team, and Muslim Hand for arranging the camp.
District Health Officer Dr Fida Hussain Raja, during his visit, reviewed the camp in detail and expressed satisfaction over the quality of services being provided. He stated that the District Health Office has always remained committed to delivering healthcare services and would continue to organise medical camps whenever needed in the future. He also thanked the Programme Head of Muslim Hand and his team, the DIG Prisons and his staff, and Professor Dr Waseem Khan and his medical team for their collective efforts in making the camp a success.