PANAJI
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Sunday expressed concern over the rate at which people in Goa are falling prey to diabetes saying the steady rise in cases is taking Goa towards becoming the diabetic capital of the country.
“In every diabetic camp held in Goa in recent times, at least 15 to 16 new diabetic cases are found per 100 persons tested,” Sawant said, adding that nearly 65% of Goa’s population above the age of 40 are diabetic.
At least one person in every family is diabetic, he said, adding that Goa in addition to being the tourism capital is also heading towards becoming the diabetic capital of the country.
Sawant said, it is a “dangerous trend” and called for lifestyle changes to tackle the disease.
The chief minister was speaking at a function at Manipal Hospital, Dona Paula where he unveiled its upgraded department of ophthalmology for which it has tied up with Prasad Netralaya.
The Ophthalmology department was unveiled by Sawant in the presence of Union Minister Shripad Naik, the Hospital director Surendra Prasad and Dr Krishna Prasad, Director, Prasad Netralaya Super Speciality Eye Hospital among others.
Sawant said the enhancement of the ophthalmology department at Manipal hospital with Prasad Netralaya would provide access to all the eye care needs of the people in Goa.
“I am sure that the new department with the expertise of Prasad Netralaya and Manipal Hospital would help healthcare services scale new heights,” Sawant said.
Meanwhile, Prasad of Manipal Hospital said with the tie-up with Prasad Netralaya, latest international standard ophthalmic equipment like computerized eye testing, contact and non-contact eye pressure measurement, retinal scan (OCT), retinal perimetry lasers are now available.
Also, specialized surgeons with the latest equipment for cataract surgery, retina and glaucoma surgeries, supported by experienced technical staff will be available.
Other facilities include cataract and refractive laser services, retina services, diabetic retinopathy clinic, glaucoma services, occuloplasty, pediatric eye check-up, optical outlet with all popular branded spectacles and cashless health insurance coverages besides outpatient services will be available.
