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Vision 2020 - the right to sight
S Resnikoff1, I Kocur, D E Etya'ale
1Prevention of Blindness and Deafness, Chronic Diseases Prevention and Management, World Health Organization, 20 Avenue Appia, CH-1211 Geneva 27, Switzerland.
Annals of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology
|September 26, 2008
Summary
The global Vision 2020 initiative, launched in 1999, aims to eliminate avoidable blindness. It has expanded partnerships and reduced blindness from onchocerciasis and trachoma, though cataracts remain a leading cause.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Ophthalmology
- Global Health Initiatives
Background:
- The success of Mectizan donation for onchocerciasis control inspired a broader initiative.
- Avoidable blindness remains a significant global health challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the establishment and objectives of the Vision 2020 initiative.
- To report on the progress and achievements of Vision 2020 since its inception.
Main Methods:
- The initiative is co-ordinated by the World Health Organization and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness.
- It focuses on three pillars: disease control, human resource development, and infrastructure development.
Main Results:
- Partnership has grown to over 60 member organizations.
- Prevention activities have been revitalized.
- Vision 2020 plans are complete in 40% of countries.
- Significant reductions in blindness due to onchocerciasis and trachoma have been observed.
Conclusions:
- Vision 2020 has demonstrated progress in controlling specific causes of blindness.
- Cataract remains the primary cause of avoidable blindness, requiring continued focus.
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