National programme for control of blindness: National health programs India
The National Program for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment (NPCB&VI) is a national health program in India launched in 1976 with the objective of reducing the prevalence of blindness and visual impairment. The program is implemented by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in collaboration with state governments and non-governmental organizations.
The NPCB&VI aims to provide comprehensive eye care services, prevent blindness, and rehabilitate visually impaired individuals. The program focuses on the following key strategies:
- Strengthening of eye care infrastructure: The program aims to strengthen the infrastructure for eye care services, including hospitals, eye banks, and vision centers. It also focuses on the training of eye care personnel and the development of human resources for eye care services.
- Promotion of eye health: The NPCB&VI aims to create awareness among the population about eye health and the prevention of eye diseases. It also focuses on the promotion of eye health through school health programs, workplace health programs, and community-based programs.
- Detection and treatment of eye diseases: The program aims to detect and treat eye diseases through a network of eye care facilities, including primary health centers, district hospitals, and specialized eye care centers. The program also provides free treatment for cataract, which is the leading cause of blindness in India.
- Rehabilitation of visually impaired individuals: The NPCB&VI provides rehabilitation services for visually impaired individuals, including the provision of assistive devices such as spectacles, low vision aids, and Braille devices. The program also provides vocational training and employment opportunities for visually impaired individuals.
The NPCB&VI has made significant progress in reducing the burden of blindness in India. According to the latest National Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey conducted in 2019-2020, the prevalence of blindness in India has reduced from 1.1% in 2001-2002 to 0.5% in 2019-2020. The program has also increased the availability of eye care services and has provided treatment for cataract to a large number of individuals. However, there are still challenges in the implementation of the program, including inadequate infrastructure, shortage of trained personnel, and low awareness among the population about the importance of eye health.
Final Year B Pharm Notes, Syllabus, Books, PDF Subjectwise/Topicwise
Suggested readings:
