Noor Dubai Foundation Launches Humanitarian Health Campaigns To Combat Visual Impairment In The Philippines

Noor Dubai Foundation has initiated a new series of medical campaigns in the Philippines, starting in Bulacan, a province with nearly 4 million residents. These efforts will extend to other regions, concluding in Negros Oriental by the end of this month. The initiatives align with the 53rd Eid Al Etihad celebrations.

Dr. Manal Omran Taryam, CEO and Board Member of Noor Dubai Foundation, explained why the Philippines was chosen for this campaign. With a population of 110 million, around 12 million people face visual impairment issues, according to the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness. Of these, 500,000 are blind, mostly older adults and women.

Despite extensive healthcare efforts and free treatments available in the Philippines, the volume of cases has overwhelmed the system's capacity. Accessing healthcare services is particularly challenging in remote areas. Cataracts are the leading cause of visual impairment here, making up 62% of cases. Timely interventions could treat 90% of those affected.

The foundation's work extends beyond diagnostics and treatments. It also aims to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and train medical professionals while empowering communities to lead healthier lives. Noor Dubai has already provided free screenings and examinations to over 3,000 individuals during its current medical camp in the Philippines.

Awadh Seghayer Al Ketbi, Chairman of Noor Dubai Foundation’s Board of Trustees and Director General of Dubai Health Authority, highlighted the foundation's global efforts since its medical outreach programme began in 2008. "Since the inception of its medical outreach programme in 2008, Noor Dubai has organised numerous medical camps across the globe," he stated.

Al Ketbi expressed gratitude to Sheikha Mozah bint Suhail Al Khaili for her patronage and acknowledged partners' crucial roles in supporting these campaigns. This initiative underscores Noor Dubai’s commitment to impactful healthcare solutions and strengthening global partnerships against visual impairments worldwide.

Expanding Reach Beyond Borders

Noor Dubai Foundation continues offering free healthcare services in other partner nations like Pakistan and Bangladesh. By month's end, it will have extended support to several countries as part of its mission to combat visual impairment and ensure equitable access to healthcare for underserved populations.

The foundation aims to conduct over 250 successful surgeries during this campaign, targeting a total of 5,000 beneficiaries and performing 500 surgeries by its conclusion in Negros Oriental. This effort aligns with Noor Dubai’s mission to fight preventable blindness while fostering healthier communities globally.

With inputs from WAM