It has been estimated that the number of blind in Sri Lanka ranges from nearly 93,000 to approximately 150,000 individuals. The major causes of blindness include cataract (responsible for up to 70%), refractive error, and glaucoma. The majority of Sri Lankans have never had an eye examination for a variety of reasons including the expense and a lack of access to care. A team of researchers conducted two studies examining cataract rates in rural Sri Lankan villages in 2009 and 2010. They found that 33.1% of adults studied had cataracts.
Following an eye camp conducted by MNT, several more requests were received from people of Odduchuddan, Katchillaimadu and Muthuiyankaddu villages. This further emphasized the results of the above mentioned research and the significance of intervention by MNT. In June, 2012, an eye screening camp was conducted in Odduchuddan, with the help of Dr. Malaravan, a dedicated Consultant Ophthalmologist. Reading glasses and lenses were distributed as required.