Cataract is a progressive whitening or yellowing of the naturally clear and transparent crystalline lens. It is the first cause of blindness in the world. Cataract results from the natural ageing of the eye. In Central and West Africa, the age range of the majority of persons undergoing cataract surgery is 60 – 70 years. However, other causes of cataract include medical conditions such as diabetes, eye trauma, use of certain pharmaceuticals and cosmetic products that lighten the skin colour (bleaching, Njangsang). We also have a few cases of children who are either born with or develop cataract after birth. Cataract, especially in very young children is considered an emergency and needs to be treated as soon as possible. The only known treatment for cataract is surgery. We can offer two forms of cataract surgery:
– Manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS), through an incision between 8 and 12mm.
– Phacoemulsification surgery, through an incision averaging 1.5 – 3mm
