Importance of Eye Donation Highlighted During National Eye Donation Fortnight
–Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh Launches Awareness Campaign
Chandigarh, 25 August
Punjab’s Health and Family Welfare Minister, Dr. Balbir Singh, launched the 39th National Eye Donation Fortnight on Sunday, August 25th. The initiative aims to raise awareness about the importance of eye donation and encourage people to pledge their eyes after death.
Appeal for Pledges and Dispeling Myths
Dr. Singh emphasized the noble cause of eye donation, highlighting how it can restore sight to those suffering from corneal blindness. He urged the public to come forward and dispel any misconceptions surrounding eye donation.
The fortnight, observed from August 25th to September 8th, will see intensified Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities across the state.
Facts and Benefits of Eye Donation
Dr. Singh, an eye surgeon himself, explained that corneal blindness results from damage to the cornea, the transparent layer in front of the iris. This critical surgery, called keratoplasty, replaces a damaged cornea with a healthy one from a donor, restoring vision.
- Impact of Eye Donation: Dr. Singh emphasized the significance of sight, noting it allows us to experience 80% of sensory impressions. He also pointed out that corneal blindness primarily affects young individuals with their whole lives ahead of them.
- Shortage of Corneal Tissue: Despite the availability of trained surgeons and facilities, a significant gap exists between eye donations and the number of people needing corneal transplants.
Punjab’s Eye Donation Infrastructure
The state boasts 10 registered eye banks and 27 corneal transplantation centers. In 2023-24, 940 corneal transplants were performed, with 275 successful surgeries completed thus far in 2024.
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How to Register as an Eye Donor
- Registration forms are available at district hospitals, sub-division hospitals, and community health centers.
- Online registration is also available at www.nhm.punjab.gov.in/Eye_Donation/form1.php
Addressing Common Concerns
A dedicated FAQ section clarifies misconceptions and provides factual information about eye donation:
- Eligibility: Anyone, regardless of age, sex, or blood group, can be an eye donor.
- Donation Process: Only the cornea, the transparent front layer of the eye, is used for transplantation.
- Time Sensitivity: Eyes must be removed within 6 hours after death.
- Medical Conditions: People with diabetes and hypertension can still donate.
- Disqualification Criteria: Individuals infected with specific diseases like AIDS, Hepatitis B or C, and others listed in the FAQ cannot donate.
- Post-Death Procedures: Relatives of the deceased should immediately inform the nearest eye bank or eye collection center.
Call to Action
By participating in the National Eye Donation Fortnight and pledging their eyes, citizens can contribute towards making Punjab and India corneal blindness-free.
