By Our Reporter
Shillong: The first ever Diabetic Retinopathy Management Project of the region that aims at cost reduction, convenience and providing both medical and surgical treatment will be launched in the State on August 9.
The project is a joint venture of Bansara Eye Care Centre (BECC) in collaboration with World Diabetes Foundation and Society for Promotion of Eye Care and Sight (Charitable unit of Bansara Eye Care).
BECC, Director Dr Jennifer V Basaiawmoit, informed that the three year project of 4.5 crore has been thoroughly developed and designed to cater to the needs of the people which involves capacity building of the retina department of the hospital.
“The diabetic retinopathy problem is mostly detected at its advanced stage. Considering that it needs a lengthened treatment to deal with its chronic nature, citizens of the state can now avail therapy with ease,” she said.
Elaborating further she stated that the project is looking forward to train over 1400 health propagators which include General Doctors, Diabetologists, Optometrists/MLOP, Community Health Workers, ASHA Facilitators, ASHAs, across the State using a ‘Top-Down’ approach.
The focus would be to extend awareness and empower the approximately 1.85 million people living in the state, with information on diabetes and DR.
Around 640 DR screening camps would be installed accommodating at least 125,000 people with diabetes across various districts as part of this ambitious project.
“At least 125,000 people with diabetes over the project duration through 640 DR screening camps would be screened across various districts,” she added.
Talking about the project Basaiawmoit said, “This project is a first of its kind in the North East and we are proud to be associated with the World Diabetes Foundation whose vision is to be a catalyst for change.” Further, adding that their objective is to open a window of hope in developing countries by supporting prevention and treatment of diabetes.
Calling for support and collaboration from all quarters of the society, Basaiawmoit said, “Only through convergence of efforts from various stakeholders could something like this be made into a sustainable venture for the benefit of the community at large.”
It may be mentioned that a day after the launch of the project, a diabetes/diabetic retinopathy screening camp would be held at MUDA complex, parking lot, 2nd Floor, Police Bazaar.
