The Peter Watson Memorial Lecture "Vision for the World"

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Ophthalmology
• Global Health Initiatives

Background:

• The 1990s highlighted preventable blindness as a major global issue, spurring the Vision 2020 initiative.
• Significant advancements in eye care programs have been made over 30 years, focusing on underserved populations.
• The 2019 World Health Organization's World Report on Vision advocates for Integrated Person-centred Eye Care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze global trends in vision loss and blindness prevalence.
• To identify key strategies for achieving equitable eye care.
• To emphasize the need for integrated and person-centered approaches to eye health.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from multiple population-based studies.
• Evaluation of progress through developed indicators and national government reporting.
• Review of strategies for integrating eye care into primary healthcare services.

Main Results:

• Global prevalence rates of vision loss and blindness are decreasing.
• The absolute number of individuals affected by vision loss is increasing due to population growth and aging.
• Equity in eye care requires integration with primary care and other specialist services.

Conclusions:

• Despite decreasing prevalence rates, the growing number of people with vision loss necessitates enhanced eye care strategies.
• Integrating eye care into primary healthcare and coordinating multidisciplinary teams are essential for equitable access.
• Developing and resourcing coordinated eye care teams is vital for meeting population needs and monitoring progress.