Medical experts are raising alarm over a growing wave of eye diseases, warning that climate change and rising pollution levels are increasingly putting both urban and rural populations at risk of serious vision problems, including blindness.

Hospitals are already reporting a surge in eye allergies, conditions specialists say could worsen if left untreated.

Opthalmologist and cataract surgeon Amos Kiptoo says the changing environmental conditions are a major driver of the rising cases.

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“We now have a lot of dust along with severe or hot and very cold seasons which affect the eyes for many people, leading to allergies and other ailments,” said Kiptoo.

He noted that increased pollution levels are contributing significantly to eye complications, with many patients reporting various forms of allergies.

Kiptoo, who runs the Siloam Eye Center, has called for enhanced public sensitisation and improved access to specialised eye care services.

He said the centre is stepping up efforts to bridge the gap in eye health services, including outreach programmes and expanded treatment options.

“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 also set to host a medical camp at its new centre in Eldoret, which is expected to be officially launched by Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii.

According to Kiptoo, the centre will offer comprehensive eye care, ranging from basic vision checks to complex surgeries, including cataract operations. It will also conduct screenings for common conditions such as short and long-sightedness.

He warned that lack of specialists and limited public awareness is worsening preventable cases of vision impairment.

“Unavailability of experts to offer specialist eye services and relevant health education for prevention and early detection is something we must address,” he said.

Kiptoo added that early detection and treatment remain key in preventing avoidable blindness, especially among both young and elderly patients.

Governor Bii welcomed the partnership, saying the county is working with private investors to expand access to modern healthcare services in the region.

“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,” said Bii.

He added that the county government will continue creating an enabling environment for investors in the health sector as Eldoret grows as a medical hub.