Eye diseases are a significant global health issue, affecting millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), at least 2.2 billion people suffer from near or distance vision impairment. Alarmingly, vision impairment in at least 1 billion of these individuals could have been prevented or remains unaddressed. The primary causes of vision impairment and blindness globally are refractive errors and cataracts.

In India, the prevalence of blindness and vision impairment varies considerably across different regions and demographics. The National Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey, conducted by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare between 2015 and 2019, revealed that 0.36% of the Indian population—about 6.2 million people—are blind. Moderate to severe visual impairment affects 1.06% of the population, equating to 55 million individuals. The survey highlighted that blindness is 1.37 times more prevalent in rural areas compared to urban regions, and moderate to severe visual impairment is 1.22 times higher in rural areas. Among those aged 50 and above, 1.43% are blind, and 4.06% experience moderate to severe visual impairment.

Challenges in Eye Care

The occurrence of eye diseases varies across different regions and is influenced by factors such as age, socioeconomic status, and the availability of healthcare services. The most common eye diseases include cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, and refractive errors. India bears a substantial portion of the global burden of eye diseases; the country is home to nearly 20% of the world’s blind population. According to a recent report, India has 9.3 million visually impaired and 270,000 blind children, with over 75% of these cases being preventable or treatable. Several factors contribute to this high prevalence:

• Limited access to eye care services: Many people, especially in rural and underserved urban areas, have limited access to eye care services. The distribution of ophthalmologists and optometrists is skewed toward urban centers, leaving rural populations with inadequate coverage.
• Lack of awareness: There is a general lack of awareness about eye health and the importance of regular eye check-ups. Many people do not seek eye care until they experience significant vision loss.
• Economic barriers: The cost of eye care, including surgery and corrective lenses, can be prohibitive for many families. This economic barrier prevents timely treatment and management of eye conditions.
• Infrastructure and resources: The eye care infrastructure in India is often insufficient, with a shortage of specialized equipment and trained personnel. This limits the capacity to diagnose and treat eye diseases effectively.

Strategies for Improved Access to Eye Care

To address the burden of eye diseases in India, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Here are some strategies that can help improve access to eye care:

1. Strengthening primary eye care: Integrating primary eye care into the primary health care system can ensure that eye health is part of the routine health services available to all. Training primary care providers in basic eye care and equipping primary health centers with essential eye care tools can facilitate early detection and treatment.
2. Public awareness campaigns: Raising awareness about the importance of eye health through public campaigns can encourage people to seek regular eye examinations. Information on common eye conditions, preventive measures, and available services should be disseminated through various media channels.
3. Affordable and accessible eye care services: Ensuring that eye care services are affordable and accessible to all, especially in rural areas, is essential. Mobile eye clinics and telemedicine can extend the reach of eye care services to remote and underserved regions.
4. Partnerships with NGOs and the private sector: Collaborations between the government, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the private sector can enhance the availability and quality of eye care services. These partnerships can facilitate resource sharing, training programs, and the establishment of eye care centers.
5. Investment in technology and research: Advancements in medical technology, such as AI-powered diagnostic tools and low-cost surgical equipment, can revolutionize eye care. Investing in research to develop innovative treatments and improve existing ones can significantly impact the management of eye diseases.
6. Policy and regulatory support: Implementing policies that support the training of more eye care professionals, including optometrists and ophthalmologists, can help address the shortage of skilled personnel. Additionally, regulations ensuring the quality and affordability of eye care services are vital.
7. Screening and early detection programs: National screening programs for common eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and cataracts can facilitate early detection and treatment. These programs can be integrated into existing healthcare frameworks to maximize reach and efficiency.

Also Read: Innovations for Health: Future Challenges in India

The global burden of eye diseases is a pressing public health issue that requires urgent attention. A collective effort from the government, healthcare providers, and the public can pave the way for a future where eye diseases no longer pose a significant threat to vision health.

Views expressed by: Nikkhil K Masurkar, CEO, Entod Pharmaceuticals

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