Doctors create African sight-saving clinics

DOCTORS from the Capital have established a sight-saving clinic in Malawi.

A retinal laser has been installed at Kamuzu Central Hospital for the treatment of diabetic retinopathy – and 12 patients were treated on a recent visit by staff from the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion as part of a link between Scotland and the south-east African country.

People in Malawi with the condition previously had to travel to South Africa for treatment, which the vast majority could not afford. One of the doctors behind the project, Dr Peter Cackett, said: “It’s fantastic to think that it’s the first time the operation has ever been done in that country.”

The Edinburgh Clinic donated equipment including knives, swabs and needles to support the latest trip.