Suphamitr Hospital has launched a major campaign titled "100 Eyes for 35 Years of Suphamitr" to provide cataract surgeries for underprivileged patients who lack access to treatment due to financial constraints, targeting 100 eyes. The ophthalmology team aims for Thailand to be free from cataract blindness (conditions apply as per hospital regulations).

Dr. Meth Chokchai-chan, Chairman of Suphamitr Hospital Public Company Limited, revealed that Thailand's population structure has entered an aging society. As of December 31, 2023, there are 13 million elderly people, accounting for 20% of the population, and in the next 10 years, this figure is expected to rise to 28%, fully transitioning into a Super-Aged Society.

The aging society inevitably brings about age-related diseases, particularly cataracts, which are a common condition among the elderly. Cataracts can severely impair vision, creating significant barriers to normal life, especially for the impoverished in remote areas who may struggle to access services, requiring considerable time and financial resources, and may have to wait months or even years for treatment.

Recognizing the critical impact of cataracts on vision and quality of life, Suphamitr Hospital initiated the "100 Eyes for 35 Years of Suphamitr" project as a key activity to celebrate its 35th anniversary. We believe this initiative will help ensure that Thai citizens can live without the threat of cataract blindness.

This project will provide cataract surgeries for 100 eyes of underprivileged patients who face financial barriers (conditions apply as per hospital regulations). This initiative reinforces the hospital's commitment to the vision of a "Cataract-Free Thailand".

Suphamitr Hospital has consistently aimed to be a leader in cataract treatment by utilizing modern technology and selecting high-quality innovations and tools for precision and safety, along with compassionate and attentive service. We also provide transportation across Thailand and accommodation for relatives accompanying patients, maintaining high-quality standards and maximum safety, certified by AACI from the United States for cataract surgery.

"Suphamitr Hospital has treated over 300,000 cataract patients, with surgical service points in five locations: Lamphun in the North, Trang in the South, Sakon Nakhon and Nakhon Ratchasima in the Northeast, and nationwide screening units. This extensive experience and modern technology drive our commitment to eliminate cataracts from Thailand," said Dr. Meth Chokchai-chan.

Cataracts occur due to the degeneration of proteins that make up the eye lens, causing the lens to become cloudy and hard. They are most commonly found in individuals aged 50 and older, primarily due to age-related degeneration. Symptoms include gradual vision blurriness without inflammation or pain, resembling a film or fog obscuring vision. The severity of symptoms depends on the level and location of cloudiness in the lens, leading to double vision and blurred sight due to uneven lens opacity. Some patients may experience increasing nearsightedness, requiring frequent changes in glasses, difficulty with bright lights, and distorted color perception, needing more light to see.

When cataracts mature, they may appear white in the pupil, which is normally black. If left untreated, mature cataracts can lead to complications such as glaucoma and intraocular inflammation, causing eye pain, redness, and potentially leading to vision loss. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should consult an ophthalmologist immediately for prompt treatment.