Dhaka: State Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr. MA Muhit emphasized that eye health is intricately linked to education, employment, economic productivity, and overall national development, marking it as more than just a healthcare issue.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dr. Muhit, who is also an international public health and eye care specialist, shared these insights while serving as the chief guest at the "National Dialogue on Eye Health Beyond Health," a seminar organized by The Fred Hollows Foundation at a city hotel. He reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring quality eye care services for all citizens, affirming the right to access quality eye healthcare.
Reflecting on the progress made in Bangladesh's eye care sector since its independence in 1971, Dr. Muhit praised the significant contributions of physicians, development partners, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders. However, he acknowledged the ongoing challenges in expanding eye care services, particularly due to the growing elderly population, increasing diabetes cases, and limited access in rural and remote areas.
Dr. Muhit highlighted the need for timely eye care services for women, older people, persons with disabilities, and other underserved communities. He stressed the importance of evidence-based planning and evaluation, disclosing that the government plans to conduct a large-scale rapid assessment survey to evaluate the country's overall eye health situation. The findings from this survey would aid in formulating the sector's next five-year action plan.
Addressing potential public health challenges, Dr. Muhit noted that diabetic retinopathy and visual impairment are likely to become significant concerns. He assured that the government has already initiated measures to tackle these issues and is working towards eliminating cataract-related blindness nationwide, not just in Barishal Division, within the next five years.
Moreover, Bangladesh aims to enhance its global leadership in eye care by co-hosting a global summit on the issue. The seminar also witnessed the official launch of the "Barishal Vision 2030: Cataract Elimination Programme."
Prominent figures such as Ross Piper, CEO of The Fred Hollows Foundation, Prof Dr ASMM Kadir, Acting Director of the National Institute of Ophthalmology and Hospital, and Dr Munir Ahmed, Country Director of Orbis International, also addressed the audience. The event saw participation from representatives of development partners, UN agencies, government and private organizations, academia, and civil society.