Karachi (Staff Reporter): Renowned Pakistani eye surgeon Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar Ahmed has advised couples planning to get married to undergo comprehensive eye examinations prior to marriage. He emphasized that early detection of hereditary eye conditions can help prevent transmission to
future generations.
Speaking to media representatives, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed said, “It is extremely important for both bride and groom to have their eyes tested before
marriage. Some eye diseases are hereditary and may be passed on to children, potentially affecting their vision or requiring them to wear glasses at an early age.”
Hereditary Impact on Children’s Eyesight Dr. Mukhtar explained that if parents or their elders have had eye diseases, certain parts of the
child’s eye can be affected genetically.
“Wearing glasses is not caused by watching TV or using mobile phones. Contrary to popular belief, reading too many books or screen exposure does not damage the eyes, although poor lighting conditions can cause temporary discomfort or strain,” he said.
He clarified that common misconceptions about eyesight loss due to screen use need to be addressed through awareness.
Cataracts and Diabetes — Leading Eye Health Concerns Highlighting the most common eye diseases in Pakistan, Dr. Mukhtar said:
“Cataract, or white blindness, is currently the most widespread eye condition.
People with diabetes are particularly at risk, as the disease can severely impact the retina. Annual eye examinations and retinal imaging are essential for diabetic patients.”
Dr. Mukhtar, a retina and vision expert, stressed the importance of early diagnosis and timely treatment to prevent vision loss.
Pride in Serving the Underprivileged Reflecting on his medical journey, Dr. Mukhtar expressed satisfaction in treating thousands of
underprivileged patients:
“The greatest happiness I’ve experienced came from restoring vision to poor and deserving individuals. That joy cannot be compared to treating wealthy patients.” He has treated several prominent personalities, including former Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Jamali, former Governor Sindh Hakim Muhammad Saeed, renowned banker Agha Hasan Abedi, intellectual G. Allana, artist Zia Mohyeddin, singers Mehdi Hassan, Malika Pukhraj,
Farida Khanum, Tina Sani, and the mother of former President General Pervez Musharraf.
National Recognition and Welfare Efforts Dr. Mukhtar was honored with the Pride of Performance Award by former President Farooq
Leghari on Pakistan’s 50th Independence anniversary, recognizing his contributions to ophthalmology.
He also founded the ELZA Welfare Organization, through which he established a state-of-the- art eye hospital in Nawabshah.
“We provide free outpatient care to 150 patients daily and perform around 150 eye surgeries monthly for the poor,” he shared.
Mobile Eye Clinics Coming Soon Dr. Mukhtar announced plans to launch mobile eye testing clinics in Karachi’s outskirts to
improve access to eye care for remote and underserved communities.
“With the support of philanthropists, we aim to begin this service soon to ensure eye care reaches every corner of the city,” he concluded.
