In the presence of Her Excellency Dr Lulwa Rashid Showaiter, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr Haifa Eye Hospital in collaboration with the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) – Medical University of Bahrain, organised a Glaucoma Awareness Campaign at the Avenues Mall, to increase public awareness and knowledge about glaucoma.

Led by RCSI Medical University of Bahrain alumnus, Dr Ahmed Almeer (Class of 2013), Ophthalmology Surgeon at Dr Haifa Eye Hospital with a Fellowship in Glaucoma and Advanced Anterior Segment Surgery (GAASS) from the University of Toronto and supported by the University student volunteers, the campaign focused on glaucoma, a set of eye diseases, which result in increased eye pressure and may lead to permanent vision loss and blindness. 

Professor Kathryn Strachan, Head of School of Nursing and Midwifery and Community Engagement & Service Pillar Lead, stated: “As a medical and health sciences University, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain is dedicated to serving the community by promoting health awareness and health screening for prevalent diseases and health conditions. Through our collaborative campaign with Dr Haifa Eye Hospital, we aim to empower individuals to proactively manage their eye health and mitigate the risks associated with glaucoma."

Throughout the three-day event, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain students and Dr Haifa Eye Hospital staff actively engaged with the public, providing access to informative resources, running screening tests for glaucoma; promoting the importance of regular eye examinations, especially for those over 40 years of age or with a family history of eye conditions since glaucoma may develop without early noticeable symptoms.

Dr Ahmed Almeer, reflecting on the initiative, commented: "The collaboration between Dr Haifa Eye Hospital and RCSI Medical University of Bahrain demonstrates our shared commitment to community health. By engaging with the public and providing essential screenings, we strive to enhance public awareness and promote the importance of regular eye examinations to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals at risk of glaucoma.”

By providing different avenues for health education and facilitating access to expert advice, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain continues to uphold its mission of service and its commitment to making a positive impact on communities in the Kingdom of Bahrain.