Every year, the nation observes the Eye Donation Fortnight from August 25 to September 8, a crucial awareness campaign aimed at encouraging eye donation and encouraging people to donate their eyes after they die.
Corneal disorders affect the cornea, the tissue that covers the front of the eye. Followed by cataracts and glaucoma, corneal disorders are among the most significant public health challenges in developing countries and one of the leading causes of vision loss and blindness, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). The National Health Portal of India reports that corneal blindness affects around 68 lakh people in the nation, with over 10 lakh being blind in both eyes.
It is critical to recognize that each pair of donated eyes can restore vision to two people. Furthermore, eye donation is seen as a noble act, and people should not pass up the opportunity to aid those in most need. However, there are numerous fallacies about eye donation that discourage people from donating their eyes. A lot has to be done to raise awareness about eye donation so that the burden of blindness might be minimized. As we embark on this enlightening journey, let's unravel the truths behind common myths to understand the true impact of eye donation on countless lives.
Peering into the realm of eye donation, it's time to dispel the myths and illuminate the facts during the World Eye Donation Fortnight!
Myths And Facts About Donating Your Visual Organs
Myth #1:
Eye donation affects the appearance of the donor.
Fact:
False! One of the most prevalent misconceptions is that eye donation leaves the donor disfigured. On the contrary, eye donation is a non-invasive procedure that involves only the retrieval of the cornea, leaving the rest of the eye intact. The donor's appearance remains completely unaffected, allowing their loved ones to proceed with the last rites as per their customs.
Myth #2:
Age and medical history restrict eye donation eligibility.
Fact:
Not Necessarily! Age should not deter anyone from expressing their desire to donate their eyes. While younger corneas are preferable for transplant, advancements in medical technology enable the use of corneas from donors in their 70s or older. Moreover, having spectacles, diabetes, or hypertension does not automatically disqualify one from donating eyes.
Myth #3:
Only perfect vision donors can help.
Fact:
False! Contrary to the myth that only people with perfect vision can donate their eyes, individuals with refractive errors, cataracts, or other common eye conditions can also be potential donors. The usability of corneas is determined posthumously, and various factors are considered during the evaluation.
Myth #4:
Eyes can be donated at any moment after death.
Fact:
Not True! It is critical to note that eyeballs can only be donated six hours after death. However, the deceased's body must be kept in a cold environment. Even after death, patients with rabies, HIV, septicemia, and other diseases cannot donate their eyes.
Also Read: World Organ Donation Day: Debunking The Popular Myths Of This Noble Act
Myth #5:
Eye Donors can't be organ donors.
Fact:
Incorrect! Eye donation does not hinder the possibility of being an organ donor. In fact, many donors choose to donate multiple organs to help as many people as possible. One person's generosity can positively impact numerous lives.
