Eye diseases in Malta at the turn of the century

Abstract

This work is based on reports published by three ophthalmologists working between the years 1890-1909, namely (1) on Prof. L. Manche's "Rendiconto degli ammalati ammessi durante il Biennio 1890-91 (per il Dottor Salvatore Cassar) nel Comparto Ottalmico dell`Ospedale Centrale di Malta; (2) on "Le Malattie Oculari in Malta: Appunti Clinici e Statistici 1899" by Dr. Giuseppe Norsa an "oculist" from Rome, and (3) on an "Annual Statistical Report of the Eye Diseases treated at the Ophthalmic Institute of Malta from July 1908 to July 1909" by Dr. C. Manche. These reports show that eye diseases at the turn of the century were being treated by the best means available at that time. The surgeons were very well informed about developments on the Continent and tried to do their best. What was needed was the raising of the standard of living, especially better housing to avoid overcrowding, a good water supply, good sanitation, the establishment of suitable centres for treatment and education of the masses on ocular hygiene and early treatment.