ELDORET, Kenya — Medical experts are warning of a growing surge in eye-related diseases, linking the trend to worsening climate change effects and rising pollution levels that are increasingly affecting both urban and rural populations.
Specialists say hospitals are reporting a noticeable rise in eye allergies and related conditions, with concerns that the situation could escalate into more severe complications, including partial or total vision loss if not addressed early.
Ophthalmologist and cataract surgeon Dr. Amos Kiptoo said shifting environmental conditions are playing a central role in the increase in cases being recorded across health facilities.
“We now have a lot of dust along with severe hot and very cold seasons which affect the eyes for many people, leading to allergies and other ailments,” Dr. Kiptoo said.
He noted that rising air pollution is also contributing significantly to the growing number of patients presenting with eye complications, particularly allergic reactions affecting vision and eye comfort.
Dr. Kiptoo, who runs the Siloam Eye Center, has called for increased public awareness and expanded access to specialised eye care services to help address the emerging public health concern.
“Our goal is to come in and provide the services that will ensure we mitigate the effects of climate change and pollution on the eyes of our people,” he said.
The facility is planning a medical outreach programme and an eye care camp at its new centre in Eldoret, which is expected to be officially launched by Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii.
The centre will offer a wide range of services, including routine vision screening, treatment of common refractive errors such as short- and long-sightedness, and advanced surgical procedures including cataract operations.
Dr. Kiptoo warned that a shortage of eye care specialists and limited public awareness is contributing to preventable cases of vision impairment across the country.
“Unavailability of experts to offer specialist eye services and relevant health education for prevention and early detection is something we must address,” he said.
He emphasized that early diagnosis and timely treatment remain critical in preventing avoidable blindness, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
Governor Jonathan Bii welcomed the initiative, noting that the county government is partnering with private healthcare providers to expand access to specialised medical services.
“We are happy to partner with Siloam Eye Unit to ensure that we sensitise our people who may be having eye related challenges so that they access specialised care,” he said.
He added that the county is working to strengthen its healthcare infrastructure and position Eldoret as a growing medical hub, while encouraging investment in the health sector to improve service delivery.
