•Lack of Donors Hampers Sight-Restoring Surgeries
A severe shortage of corneas in Kenya has left thousands of patients in desperate need of transplants, with many languishing on waiting lists due to a lack of donors.
The situation is particularly dire at Lions Sight First Eye Hospital, one of Africa’s leading eye banks, which has completely run out of corneas for transplant procedures.
Dr. Daniel Mburu, an ophthalmologist at the hospital, attributes the crisis to a widespread reluctance among Kenyans to embrace organ donation, which is typically conducted posthumously.
He noted that cultural beliefs and misconceptions have significantly hindered cornea donations, further exacerbating the shortage.
Speaking in Murang’a during a free eye screening camp organized by the hospital, Dr. Mburu revealed that over 1,000 patients are currently on the hospital’s waiting list for cornea transplants, but no corneas are available.
“We have an acute shortage of corneas and are desperately looking for people who can donate. Due to cultural reasons, many Kenyans have not embraced organ donation, but we are appealing for support to help save lives and restore sight to those who have lost it,” he stated.
Simple and Non-Invasive Donation Process
Dr. Mburu explained that cornea donation is a straightforward procedure that does not lead to body disfigurement.
Prospective donors only need to sign a commitment form allowing their corneas to be harvested after death. The process must be carried out within hours of passing.
“We only take a small portion from the front of the eye and perform a cosmetic procedure to ensure the donor’s appearance remains intact. Through this simple act, someone else can regain their sight,” he elaborated.
Rising Eye Diseases and the Growing Need for Transplants
The demand for cornea transplants is rising as eye diseases become more prevalent across the country.
Dr. Mburu highlighted cataracts, glaucoma (raised eye pressure), infections, and allergies as some of the most common conditions affecting Kenyans.
Cataracts, particularly, are a leading cause of blindness among individuals aged 55 and above. If untreated, they can severely impair vision.
Eye infections and allergies, on the other hand, are common in arid and dusty regions, where exposure to pollutants aggravates corneal damage.
Additionally, individuals suffering from diabetes and hypertension are at a higher risk of developing severe eye problems.
Research indicates a strong correlation between these systemic diseases and deteriorating vision.
For children, prolonged screen time on electronic devices such as computers, televisions, and mobile phones is emerging as a significant risk factor for poor eyesight.
Dr. Mburu urged parents to regulate their children’s screen exposure to protect their vision.
Limited Eye Care Services and Outreach Efforts
Despite the increasing prevalence of eye diseases, Kenya faces a shortage of specialized eye care professionals, making it difficult for many individuals to receive proper diagnosis and treatment.
In response to this challenge, Lions Sight First Eye Hospital has been conducting nationwide outreach programs, offering free eye screenings and treatment.
The hospital performs an average of 300 free eye surgeries per week, ensuring that underprivileged patients receive advanced medical care.
“Our outreach programs provide thorough eye screenings and accurate diagnoses. Those found with serious conditions receive advanced treatment free of charge,” Dr. Mburu stated.
Appeal for Public Support
With thousands of visually impaired individuals waiting for a second chance at sight, Dr. Mburu and his team are calling on Kenyans to consider cornea donation as a noble act that can transform lives.
The ophthalmologist emphasized that increasing awareness and dispelling myths surrounding organ donation could significantly boost donor numbers and help alleviate the current crisis.
As the waiting list continues to grow, the urgent need for cornea donations remains a pressing concern, underscoring the importance of public education and commitment to saving lives through posthumous organ donation.
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