Contributors

About The Lancet Global Health Commission on Global Eye Health

The Lancet Global Health Commission on Global Eye Health: VISION Beyond 2020 is the work of 73 experts from 25 countries globally, and is a synthesis of new and existing research in eye health. By looking at global development, economics, healthcare systems, equity and the workforce, the Commission argues that improving eye health is essential to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and provides recommendations to improve eye health for all.

The Report

This Commission builds on the foundation laid by VISION 2020 and the WHO World Report on Vision to provide an evidence base for the future of eye health.

Without additional investment in global eye health, new estimates reveal that 1.8 billion people are expected to be living with untreated vision loss by 2050. The vast majority of these— 90% —reside in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with the greatest proportion living in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.

Solutions do exist, as more than 90% of vision loss could being prevented or treated with existing, highly cost-effective interventions, the report finds.

The authors call on governments to include eye health in broader health care planning and financing, harness new technology to improve diagnosis and treatment, and expand the eye health workforce, so that everyone can access high-quality eye care. Through this the world can achieve substantial and immediate benefits, not only for people living with vision impairment, but societies as a whole.

View the following video to learn more.