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Fervent eye care efforts continue in Haiti 2 years after quake
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 Mildred M.G. Olivier |
ORLANDO, Fla. — Almost 2 years after an earthquake devastated the island nation of Haiti, ophthalmologists are continuing a concerted effort to provide much-needed eye care, a speaker said here.
Mildred M.G. Olivier, MD, presented an update on developments in Haiti during Glaucoma Subspecialty Day preceding the American Academy of Ophthalmology meeting.
More than 200,000 Haitians died in the quake and its aftermath in January 2010, and 30% of Haitian ophthalmologists lost part or all of their practices in the quake, she said.
"Haiti has had a lot of quakes in the last 200 years in terms of social, economic and emotional trauma," Dr. Olivier said. "Certainly, that recovery has to be holistic in terms of support that they need."
Haitians are particularly at risk for early onset of glaucoma, Dr. Olivier said, and there are currently about 52 ophthalmologists practicing in Haiti, Dr. Olivier said.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology Haiti Task Force, Academy and Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology, Haitian Society of Ophthalmology and many private individuals and institutions are in Haiti continuing efforts to improve eye care.
Efforts involve skills transfer programs, continuing medical education, residencies and fellowships. Research is focused on genetic research, the use of lasers and other clinical areas. Initiatives also include outreach and glaucoma education, Dr. Olivier said.
- Disclosure: Dr. Olivier has financial interests or relationships with Alcon Laboratories Inc., Allergan Inc., National Eye Institute and Santen Inc..