The prevalence of blindness in Lao People’s Democratic Republic (PDR) is estimated to be 1% of the population with cataract accounting for approximately 60% of all cases.

The country's backlog of cataract cases is 28,500 with an annual incidence of a further 5,700 cases. The current capacity to perform cataract surgery is approximately 4,800 cases each year.

To help contribute to the reduction of avoidable blindness in Lao PDR The Fred Hollows Foundation in partnership with the Ministry of Health Lao PDR, is planning to commence a sustainable and comprehensive eye care program in the northern provinces of Oudomxay, Luang Namtha, Bokeo and Phongsaly.

After initial visits to Lao PDR in early 2006 The Foundation has now consulted with relevant government and non-government organisations working in Lao PDR. 

The Foundation is currently developing a design of the program. It is anticipated that program implementation will commence in early 2008, subject to regulatory approval.

Further program information provided soon.

The Fred Hollows Foundation in Australia
Street address: Level 2, 61 Dunning Avenue, Rosebery NSW 2018 Australia
Postal address: Locked Bag 5021, Alexandria NSW 2015 Australia
Phone: + 61 2 8741 1900 or 1800 352 352 (Donation Line)
Fax: + 61 2 8741 1999
Email: fhf@hollows.org