Scope of the Problem
According to a study published in the journal "Lancet," almost 50% of people suffering from blindness caused by cataracts need surgical treatment.The World Organization clarifies that cataracts affect 94 million people worldwide. Medical professionals emphasize that cataract surgery is an effective and straightforward intervention that can provide immediate vision restoration for many years.
Devorah Kestel, Acting Director of the WHO Department of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health, stated: "Cataract removal is one of the most effective ways to restore vision and improve quality of life."
"When people start seeing again, they regain their independence and dignity," she added.
Positive Changes
According to WHO, over the past two decades, the number of cataract surgeries performed has increased by 15%, despite the rise in cases associated with an aging population. It is projected that over the next decade, this figure will increase by another 8.4%.The organization also notes that women in most regions of the world undergo the necessary surgery less frequently than men.
The reasons why people do not receive treatment include a shortage of qualified specialists, low incomes, and a lack of information.
The primary risk factor for developing cataracts is age. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation, smoking, the use of corticosteroids, and the presence of diabetes can also lead to its development.
Solving the Problem
WHO recommends that countries integrate vision screening into primary healthcare systems, invest in surgical infrastructure, and ensure the availability of qualified specialists, especially in remote areas.The organization also emphasizes the need to eliminate gender and geographic inequality. WHO is confident that cataract surgery can become accessible to everyone in the near future.
Photo on the homepage is illustrative: istockphoto.com.
