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World Health Organization's programme on the prevention of blindness
Journal of Hygiene, Epidemiology, Microbiology, and Immunology
|January 1, 1983
Summary
The World Health Organization (WHO) established a blindness prevention program in 1978 to combat avoidable blindness, a major issue in developing nations. Integrating eye care into primary healthcare is key to reducing visual impairment and achieving "Health for All".
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Ophthalmology
- Global Health Initiatives
Background:
- Avoidable blindness presents a significant socioeconomic challenge globally, particularly in developing countries.
- Major causes of visual loss in these regions include unoperated cataract, trachoma, xerophthalmia, and onchocerciasis.
- Over two-thirds of blindness in affected areas is preventable or curable, highlighting the need for intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To reduce the incidence of avoidable blindness in developing nations.
- To ensure universal access to essential eye care services.
- To integrate blindness prevention strategies into primary healthcare frameworks.
Main Methods:
- Establishment of the World Health Organization (WHO) Programme for the Prevention of Blindness in 1978.
- Focus on developing national blindness prevention programs tailored to local needs and resources.
- Integration of eye care services within the broader primary healthcare system.
Main Results:
- Recognized blindness as a critical socioeconomic issue requiring targeted interventions.
- Identified key treatable and preventable causes of blindness prevalent in developing countries.
- Emphasized the role of primary healthcare in delivering essential eye care.
Conclusions:
- Blindness prevention is a crucial component of achieving the 'Health for All' goal.
- National programs, adapted to local contexts, are essential for effective blindness control.
- Strategic programming within general health services is necessary for successful implementation.