Causes of Avoidable Blindness and National Programs for Prevention

Introduction

Avoidable blindness refers to vision impairment that can be prevented or treated with timely intervention. Global initiatives like Vision 2020 aim to eliminate preventable blindness through comprehensive strategies.

Major Causes of Avoidable Blindness

• Cataract: The leading cause of blindness worldwide, often treatable with surgery.
• Refractive Errors: Uncorrected myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism significantly impact vision.
• Glaucoma: A group of eye diseases causing irreversible blindness if untreated.
• Diabetic Retinopathy: A complication of diabetes leading to progressive vision loss.
• Vitamin A Deficiency: Common in developing nations, leading to night blindness and corneal damage.
• Trachoma: A bacterial infection linked to poor sanitation, causing chronic blindness.

National and Global Strategies for Prevention

Vision 2020: The Right to Sight

Launched by WHO and IAPB, Vision 2020 focuses on eliminating avoidable blindness through:

• Public Health Awareness: Educating communities on early detection and treatment.
• Strengthening Healthcare Systems: Enhancing infrastructure for eye care services.
• Training Ophthalmologists and Health Workers: Ensuring adequate eye care professionals.
• Affordable Treatment Access: Providing subsidized surgeries and medications.

National Programs for Prevention

Various countries have launched national initiatives:

• India: National Programme for Control of Blindness (NPCB) offering free eye screenings and cataract surgeries.
• USA: Vision Health Initiative (VHI) promoting early detection and preventive care.
• Africa: SAFE Strategy targeting trachoma prevention through Surgery, Antibiotics, Face-washing, and Environmental improvements.

Conclusion

Preventable blindness can be eradicated through education, early detection, and improved access to healthcare. Global and national programs are crucial in achieving Vision 2020's objectives.