A recent study published in The Lancet highlights the seriousness of the situation: nearly half of all cataract patients who experience blindness do not receive the necessary surgical intervention.
Cataracts are a clouding of the eye's lens, leading to impaired vision and potentially resulting in complete blindness.
Although cataract surgery is quick and effective, taking only 15 minutes and restoring vision, many people still lack access to this procedure.
Among the reasons patients do not receive treatment are a shortage of medical professionals, low incomes, and insufficient awareness of the disease.
The primary factor contributing to the development of cataracts is age. Additionally, risk factors may include prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays, smoking, the use of corticosteroids, and the presence of diabetes.
Over the past two decades, the number of cataract surgeries has increased by 15%. However, an aging population and a rise in cases are leading to increased demand. It is expected that during the current decade, this figure will rise by another 8.4%. The WHO calls for an acceleration of growth rates and an increase in the availability of surgeries by 30%.
The organization recommends that countries implement vision screenings in primary healthcare systems, invest in surgical infrastructure, and ensure the availability of qualified specialists, especially in rural areas.
Furthermore, the WHO emphasizes the need to address gender and geographical inequalities in access to healthcare services.
