Biggest cataract operations is on

Cataracts- are a disease of the lens which is part of the eye that can lead to blindness. People can develop cataracts in their 40's or 50's. There are certain prevention to avoid cataracts such as protecting the eyes from the sun, avoid smoking habit, prevent and control diabetes. But a surgical operation is the main solution for cataracts that have developed to the stage that may cause blindness. Through operation, patients may avail a good success at restoring sights. Cataract removal is the most common operations performed in the world today.

The free cataract operation project started in Manila in 2001 and has since been carried out in various regions and provinces in Luzon , Visayas and Mindanao. The surgical team led by Dr. Federico Malubay from the Malacanang clinic has finally arrived last May 27, 2006 here in Bohol for the biggest cataract operation and they successfully evaluated the Boholano patients with their pre-medical mission on cataract and other major cases.

The first day was held at the governor's mansion then followed at the Bohol Cultural Center (BCC) the next day. The mission was a project of the Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo through the foundation of the First Gentleman (FG) lawyer. Jose Miguel “Mike” T. Arroyo. For those who don't know, the FG Foundation conducted nationwide for free cataract operations for five years through the project. This medical mission in Bohol is said to be the first biggest cataract operation and fitting or distribution of free-dentures in the history of health programs in the Philippines. Aside from the free surgery, the project's beneficiaries are also provided with intra-ocular lenses, medicines, and series of pre- and post-operative medical tests. As what have been gathered by the head of the Bohol Health and Social Service Office, Francisca “Fancy” Baluyot as of May 28, a partial number of 1,375 patients were positive on cataract problem while other major cases such as goiter has a number of 15 patients, hernia-11, harelip-13, myoma-9, cyst-31. Clubfoot-5 and others 7.

The 200 beneficiaries were operated on for free yesterday from their cataracts at the Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital (GCGMH). Still on the same day was a continuation of pre-examination for another group of patients. Today all of the major cases enlisted were also operated. Furthermore, cataract operations and other major surgeries will continuously be in progress until June 8. The Medical Team is expecting about 2,000 cataract cases along the way which is one of its primary objectives, Five hundred recipients were for fitting and distribution of dentures and 80 patients will be expected for the other major health cases. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is on a presidential visit here in Bohol tomorrow to witness and observe the ongoing operations as well as meeting with the mission beneficiaries and other surgical cases together with the First Gentleman.

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