Four children have permanently lost their sight in recent weeks due to severe chemical burns from lime used in betel chewing, health authorities revealed Tuesday, prompting urgent warnings about a disturbing rise in preventable eye injuries across Northern Province.
Dr. M. Malaravan, an ophthalmologist at Jaffna Teaching Hospital, disclosed that six children suffered serious eye injuries from betel-related lime exposure in recent weeks alone, with four cases resulting in irreversible blindness. The injuries occurred when children came into contact with calcium hydroxide lime, a caustic alkaline substance traditionally applied to betel leaves.
"We are witnessing a preventable tragedy unfold," Dr. Malaravan said at a press conference at the hospital. "These are not isolated incidents. The combination of accidental lime exposure and the subsequent use of harmful home remedies is causing permanent damage to children's eyes."
The ophthalmologist specifically warned against traditional remedies that parents sometimes apply when irritants enter children's eyes. "Putting breast milk or rooster's blood in the eyes is extremely risky and can introduce blinding bacterial infections," he said. "These practices, while rooted in traditional belief, can compound chemical injuries and lead to catastrophic outcomes."
Calcium hydroxide lime, locally known as chunnambu, is a key ingredient in betel quid preparation, mixed with areca nut and betel leaf. The highly alkaline substance can cause severe chemical burns upon contact with eyes, potentially penetrating the cornea within seconds if not immediately flushed with clean water.
Dr. Malaravan also highlighted another emerging concern: an increase in eye injuries from hair dye chemicals in the region. He noted the trend was becoming more prevalent in clinical cases.
