Illegal brew, cell phones linked to increased eye problems among young people

Excessive consumption of illegal brew, drug abuse and uncontrolled use of mobile phones have been blamed for the increased eye problems among youths in Juja, Kiambu County.

Experts, speaking at a free eye clinic at Zetech University’s Mang’u campus in Withie, said the large number of young people who came to the clinic admitted to being addicted to at least one of the three.

The clinic was organized by the university in collaboration with PCEA Kikuyu Hospital, Christian Blind Mission (CBM) and Kiambu State Government.

The goal was to treat 300 patients, but more than 1,000 residents showed up for check-ups.

Experts, led by Juja sub-county public health officer Anne Mwangi, warned residents against heavy alcohol and substance abuse.

“Consumption of illegal concoctions and drugs has been a major cause of eye problems and treatment of these problems is usually time and money consuming. We appeal to our people to regulate or completely shun alcoholism,” she said.

Mwangi urged Kenyan youths to use their mobile phones and laptops with caution as they endanger the health of their eyes.

“We understand that most of our youth work online or use digital platforms to earn a living. However, they must be very careful as excessive and uncontrolled use of these digital devices can damage their eyes. It is advisable to usually take a break after a certain period of using these devices,” she said.

Mwangi said the doctors’ strike has left many Kenyans desperate for healthcare.

She said those who showed up were screened and given medications, as well as assistive devices such as glasses.

Mwangi said most patients had previously been identified at their homes by community health promoters (CHPs) and referred to the clinic.

“We sent our CHPs to the villages to look for patients who needed eye checks. We expected about 300 patients but we were shocked that more than 1,000 residents showed up,” Mwangi said.

She said eye problems common in the region include cataracts, myopia and allergies.

Vice Chancellor of Zetech University, Prof. Alice Njuguna, implored the striking doctors to negotiate with the government and find a lasting solution to the impasse, saying Kenyans are suffering.

She said a high percentage of Kenyans cannot afford to seek help from private medical facilities.

“We have seen community members suffering as they cannot access healthcare due to the ongoing strike. We implore our government to take swift action and engage in dialogue with the doctors to end the strike,” said Njuguna.

The DVC said the partnership between Zetech, Kiambu State Government, Kikuyu PCEA Hospital and CBM is transformative and the university will continue to hold similar clinics in Juja and Ruiru constituencies.

“This joint effort is an example of the University’s commitment to building partnerships for the greater good. By promoting health awareness and providing tangible services, Zetech University and its partners envision a healthier, more prosperous future for all,” said Njuguna.

Residents, who have benefited from the clinic, said they face a difficult challenge in accessing the services, especially at this time when doctors have laid down their tools.

Jane Wanjiku, a CHP in Withie district, said poor Kenyans are suffering at home.