Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital organizes free camp for media personnel

Patient being screened at a medical camp by Agarwal’s Eye Hospital at the Daily Excelsior office in Srinagar on Thursday. - Excelsior/Shakeel
Patient being screened at a medical camp by Agarwal’s Eye Hospital at the Daily Excelsior office in Srinagar on Thursday. - Excelsior/Shakeel

Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Dec 12: Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital organized a free eye health camp today at the Bureau office of Daily Excelsior here.

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The camp, which ran from 11 am to 3 pm provided eye care services to over 60 individuals, primarily journalists. Doctors conducted comprehensive eye screenings, on-site tests, and prescribed medications. “The camp was organized to create awareness about eye health. Media personnel are frequently exposed to digital screens and gadgets, which increases the risk of eye dryness. Through basic screenings, we aimed to inform them about their eye health,” Dr Amjid, a senior ophthalmologist and head of the Agarwal’s eye hospital in Srinagar, said.
He said Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, which operates in at least 10 countries, recently inaugurated its 200th branch in the Qamarwari area of Srinagar. The new branch aims to provide high-quality eye care to residents who would otherwise need to travel outside the Valley for treatment.
“We are pleased to announce that renowned doctors, including Prof. Amar Agarwal, Dr. Suzanne Jacob and Dr. Natarajan, are part of our team. Our goal is to deliver the same world-class facilities in Kashmir that we offer globally,” the doctor added.
The hospital aims to address the challenges faced by eye patients in Kashmir, including financial constraints associated with traveling for treatment. “Due to travel and boarding expenses, many patients cannot afford surgeries. We offer these treatments in Srinagar at affordable costs,” he said.
The doctor also highlighted the rise in diabetes-related eye conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy, and a higher prevalence of keratoconus in Kashmir compared to other states. He noted the need for corneal transplants, which are currently unavailable in the region. “We plan to establish an eye bank in Kashmir to cater to patients requiring transplants,” he said.
To raise awareness about eye health, the doctor recommended following the 20-20-20 rule. “Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away,” he said.
Sheikh Tariq, a journalist who participated in the camp, praised the initiative. “Such camps are crucial for media professionals who often neglect their health. I am thankful to Daily Excelsior for organizing this camp, and I urge everyone to prioritize their eye care,” he said.