Cataracts are a clouding of the lens, which leads to a deterioration of vision and can result in complete blindness.
Despite the fact that cataract surgery is relatively simple and takes only 15 minutes, many patients still do not have the opportunity to undergo it.
Among the main reasons for this situation are the shortage of medical professionals, low incomes, and insufficient public awareness of available treatment options.
Age is a key factor contributing to the development of cataracts, but other factors such as prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation, tobacco use, corticosteroid use, and the presence of diabetes also influence the development of this condition.
Over the past two decades, the number of cataract surgeries has increased by 15%, although the aging population and the rise in cases of this disease create increased demand. In the next decade, this figure is expected to increase by another 8.4%. In this regard, the WHO calls for a 30% acceleration in the growth of access to surgical treatment.
The organization recommends that countries implement vision screening in primary healthcare systems, invest in the necessary surgical infrastructure, and ensure the availability of qualified specialists, especially in rural areas. It also emphasizes the need to address gender and geographic inequalities in access to medical services.
