LGH Becomes First Public Sector Centre for Advanced Laser Treatment of Glaucoma

By Farzana Chaudhry | Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE, June 21: Lahore General Hospital (LGH) has achieved another milestone in public healthcare by becoming the first public sector hospital in the region to offer advanced laser treatment for glaucoma, commonly known as Kala Motia. Two state-of-the-art laser machines were donated to the Department of Ophthalmology by philanthropists and were formally inaugurated by Principal Amiruddin Medical College, Prof. Dr. Farooq Afzal.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Prof. Dr. Farooq Afzal described philanthropists serving humanity as valuable assets to society. He said their generous contribution had enabled the hospital to provide world-class treatment facilities to patients suffering from glaucoma. He added that the introduction of modern laser technology would not only improve patient care but also facilitate Level IV training for young ophthalmologists, enabling them to deliver high-quality glaucoma treatment across Pakistan.

Head of the Ophthalmology Department, Prof. Dr. Tayyaba Gul Malik, said glaucoma comprises more than 100 different types and is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. Traditionally, patients have had to rely on expensive eye drops for prolonged periods. However, with the availability of advanced laser treatment, many patients will now be able to reduce or avoid long-term dependence on medication while preserving their vision.

She described glaucoma as the “silent thief of sight,” noting that symptoms often remain unnoticed during the early stages of the disease, making timely diagnosis essential. According to her, common symptoms include persistent headaches or a feeling of heaviness in the head, eye pain or pressure, blurred vision, gradual loss of peripheral vision, and seeing coloured halos around lights.

Prof. Dr. Tayyaba Gul Malik advised individuals over the age of 40, particularly those with a family history of glaucoma, to undergo regular comprehensive eye examinations, including fundus examinations and intraocular pressure (IOP) checks, to ensure early detection and treatment.

Prof. Dr. Farooq Afzal also commended the professionalism and dedication of the Ophthalmology Department and expressed gratitude to the philanthropists whose support made the acquisition of the laser machines possible.

Senior faculty members, administrative doctors, and healthcare professionals attended the inauguration ceremony.