Clinical Report: Millions Could Miss Out on Cataract Surgery
Overview
New analysis indicates that global cataract surgery coverage will only increase by 8.4 percentage points by 2030, significantly below the World Health Assembly's target of 30 percentage points. The situation is particularly dire in Africa, where only 4 percentage points increase is anticipated, leaving millions without access to necessary treatment.
Background
Cataracts remain the leading cause of blindness worldwide, despite being treatable with simple surgery. The World Health Assembly has set ambitious targets for cataract surgery coverage, yet current projections suggest that many regions, especially Africa and among women, will fall short. Addressing these gaps is crucial for improving quality of life and economic participation in affected communities.
Data Highlights
The ICEH predicts that by 2025, one in two people globally needing cataract surgery will lack access, with the figure rising to three in four in Africa.
Key Findings
- Global cataract surgery coverage is projected to increase by only 8.4 percentage points by 2030.
- Africa is expected to see a mere 4 percentage points increase in coverage.
- Women in Africa will see an increase of only 3.6 percentage points in effective surgical coverage by 2030.
- Countries like India, Malaysia, and Rwanda demonstrate successful models for improving cataract surgery outcomes.
- Investment in eye care services can lead to significant reductions in blindness prevalence, as seen in Mali.
Clinical Implications
Healthcare professionals must advocate for increased investment in cataract surgery services and equitable access, particularly for underserved populations. Strengthening primary eye care systems and integrating eye health into national health plans are essential steps to meet global targets.
Conclusion
The findings underscore the urgent need for systemic changes to improve access to cataract surgery, particularly in low-resource settings, to prevent millions from suffering avoidable blindness.
Related Resources & Content
- International Centre for Eye Health, ICEH, 2023 -- Millions Could Miss Out on Cataract Surgery
- WHO, WHO, 2026 -- One in two people facing cataract blindness need access to life-changing surgery
- Eyecare Business, Eyecare Business, 2026 -- WHO Urges Faster Expansion of Global Access to Cataract Surgery
- Ophthalmology Management, Ophthalmology Management, 2026 -- Technology Transforms Global Eye Care
- ophthalmology management — Recent Developments in Ophthalmic Surgery
- Ophthalmology Management — Recent Developments in Ophthalmic Surgery
- Recent Developments in Ophthalmic Surgery
- Summary of recommendations for quality of care in cataract surgery management
- One in two people facing cataract blindness need access to life-changing surgery
- Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery versus conventional phacoemulsification cataract surgery: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials - PubMed
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