A rescue program designed to help more cataract sufferers regain their eyesight has been launched in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

Long Zhihua, chief of the social welfare and affairs section with the regional bureau of civil affairs, said the program would offer free treatment to over 30,000 cataract patients in the autonomous region within a year.

The financing needed in the operation, 48 million yuan (about US$5.78 million), will be met by money drawn from the public benefit fund of welfare lottery sales.

Eighteen cataract patients received surgery in the first day of the program, which started in Wuming County of Guangxi on Tuesday. The oldest patient was 85 years old and the youngest 40.

(Xinhua News Agency July 21, 2005)