MoSA Records New Milestone for Assisting 600 Cataract Patients

EAST LOMBOK (December 7th, 2023) - A total of 643 candidates for cataract surgery at Selaparang District Hospital had undergone screening at four Community Health Centers in East Lombok. This number is the highest among other cities and districts where the Ministry of Social Affairs has carried out cataract surgery.

560 out of 643 patients were declared eligible for surgery, with the number of eyes operated on reaching 700 because around 70 people had undergone surgery for both eyes. This number will continue to increase because the number of cataract sufferers in East Lombok and Central Lombok is large.

"Next month, we will have another cataract surgery specifically for this area. According to the Health Service, the number of cataract sufferers has indeed reached 2,000 people. Next month, we will hold the same occasion until it is complete," said Minister of Social Affairs Tri Rismaharini when reviewing the implementation of cataract surgery on Thursday (7/12).

Considering the high number of cataract sufferers and limited personnel and equipment, cataract surgery in East Lombok must be carried out in stages. However, the involvement of various parties such as Lentera Mata Indah, Rumah Senja, Muslim Around the World (MATW) Australia, and the Inti Foundation has helped significantly in treating cataract sufferers.

According to the Chairman of Lentera Mata Indah, dr. Robert Njo, Lombok, which has a coastal topography, is one of the causes of the high number of cataract sufferers in the area. Residents who live in beach or coastal areas often do not use eye protection and end up suffering from cataracts or other eye problems.

"Lombok has the highest number (of cataract sufferers), perhaps because there are lots of beaches. If we go to the beach, we should wear sunglasses," said Robert.

The Minister immediately responded to dr. Robert with her joke, "It's not stylish anyway, so I don't wear glasses." This joke was greeted with laughter from the guests present.

Public Relations Bureau

Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs