Dr Mohammed Hussein - Low Smoke Stoves Project (LPG)
Authors
Elizabeth Dunn
Issue Date
2016-03
Type
Language
en
Keywords
Energy , Health
Alternative Title
Abstract
Dr Mohammed Hussein works in El Fasher, Darfur treating local women, men and children who suffer with eye problems. He has worked at the surgery for 15 years and was the first eye doctor in El Fasher. He explained what eye health is like for communities in Darfur and what the most commons diseases are. He also explained a little about the impact indoor air pollution (smoke) has on eyes. “Smoke causes many allergies, especially in Darfur. Dust causes problems, smoke, perfume etc. 70% of patients a month are affected by allergies. Smoke can cause cataracts. Cooking by wood causes cataracts.” (infra-red rays) “We advise [people] to wash [their] face and eyes with water. I can’t tell people to stay away from smoke because it’s not possible. Rubbing can change the shape of the eye and cause problems with vision.” (3m or less vision) “Vision can only be changed through surgery. Conjunctivitis is common but not caused by smoke but often by rubbing. Watery eyes, gritty feeling and discharge are common. This can develop into sight problems if it is not treated. Every day, I see children with allergy problems with their eyes. Often it is caused by smoke. I see children going blind, once or twice a month.” (not necessarily due to smoke) “15 years at this surgery. I have seen improvements, it’s slowly getting better. Improving hygiene, hand washing, sanitation and not using wood and charcoal will improve eye health a lot. Women are affected more than men. Men are more affected by the effects of the sun.” In Sudan and Darfur state, the most common eye diseases are: 1. Cataracts 2. Trachoma 3. River Blindness 4. Glaucoma 5. Vitamin A deficiency “Cateracts and trachoma are most common in El Fasher. Today I saw a 20 year old who could only see 1m away because of allergic conjunctivitis.” In Practical Action's Low Smoke Stove project in North Darfur, LPG fuel and stoves are used as a substitute for wood and charcoal in household cooking. Thousands of families now have clean kitchens, better health and more money to spend on essentials.