Cataract is a condition that is important to detect and treat early in childhood to minimise the impact of vision loss on their development. It’s a rare condition, but it can be treated successfully by a pediatric ophthalmologist – although the surgery is more complex than for adult cataract. Post-operative visual rehabilitation is an important component of care. 

Trachoma is an infection often acquired in childhood, particularly in dusty, poverty-stricken areas, where water is scarce and sanitation poor. The WHO-approved SAFE strategy is a comprehensive approach to deal with trachoma through eyelid Surgery, Antibiotic distribution together with targeted activities to improve Facial cleanliness, and Environmental interventions to improve water supply and sanitation. 

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) can happen when a baby is born very prematurely, meaning the retina and its blood vessels are not fully developed. These infants fight for their lives in a neonatal ICU, usually with supplementary oxygen. This helps the child to survive, but can seriously damage the developing blood vessels of the retina. Scarring in the retina, usually in both eyes, follows this damage and can cause blindness. 

Many children's eye diseases, if not properly treated, can lead to permanent blindness. This is particularly challenging for developing countries, as many families generally lack basic eye care services. Studies indicate that one blind child is added globally every minute, urgently requiring our assistance.