QRCS Launches Ophthalmology Project for Rohingya Refugees in Bangladesh

Doha, September 08, 2026 : Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS), in partnership with the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS), has launched an ophthalmology project benefiting Rohingya refugees and the host community in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh.

15 Field Campaigns Planned Over Four Months

Implemented under the medical convoys programme, the project will conduct 15 field campaigns over four months to examine patients, provide medical consultations and health education, and distribute eyeglasses and medications free of charge. Patients requiring cataract surgery will be referred to specialized hospitals, with the project covering the costs of 400 surgeries, including transportation, medications, and post-operative care.

Project Addresses Major Gap in Eye Care Access

Head of QRCS's mission in Bangladesh, Mohamed Thabet Safi, said the project addresses a significant gap in access to specialized eye care services. He noted that long distances and the high cost of treatment pose major obstacles for thousands of patients whose conditions are fully treatable, adding that most of those targeted are older persons.

"The intervention was designed to cover the host community alongside refugees. Equitable health services help strengthen social cohesion and reduce pressure on local health facilities," Safi said.

WHO Estimates 90,000 in Need of Specialized Care

The project comes in response to the growing need for eye care services in refugee camps and surrounding areas. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 10 percent of camp residents suffer from vision problems — approximately 90,000 people in need of specialized services.

Part of QRCS's Broader Health Sector Support

The project also forms part of QRCS's ongoing efforts to support the health sector and provide assistance to the most vulnerable groups.

Source: QNA