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On World Sight Day, health experts highlighted a critical yet under-recognized fact: more than 85% of blindness in India is preventable. Despite India being home to the largest population of blind individuals globally, many remain unaware of this crucial aspect, leading to widespread vision loss that could be avoided with timely intervention.
India has an estimated 34 million people affected by blindness or moderate to severe visual impairment (MSVI). Dr. Rajesh Sinha, Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at AIIMS New Delhi, emphasized the importance of public awareness. “Nearly 85% of blindness in the world is avoidable, which can either be preventable or treatable,” he stated, urging the public to take proactive measures to preserve their sight.
Leading Causes of Preventable Blindness
According to the National Blindness and Visual Impairment Survey, cataract remains the leading cause of blindness in India, accounting for 66.2% of all cases. Other major causes include uncorrected refractive errors (18.6%), glaucoma (6.7%), and diabetic retinopathy (3.3%).
“Many ocular causes of preventable blindness are linked to infections and vitamin A deficiency, while treatable causes like cataracts and uncorrected refractive errors could be easily managed with appropriate medical care,” explained Dr. Sinha.
Diabetic Retinopathy and the Growing Threat of Diabetes
Experts also highlighted diabetic retinopathy as a growing cause of blindness, especially given India’s high diabetes prevalence. Dr. Ikeda Lal, Senior Cornea, Cataract, and Refractory Surgery Specialist at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, noted, “Diabetic retinopathy is becoming a significant cause of blindness, particularly in a country like India, where diabetes rates are on the rise.”
The prevalence of preventable blindness underscores the need for routine eye screenings. Experts urged early detection and treatment as the most effective tools to combat vision loss. Regular eye exams can identify early signs of cataracts, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy, enabling timely intervention before irreversible damage occurs.
A Call for Awareness and Action
Both Dr. Sinha and Dr. Lal underscored the need for widespread education on eye health. “It is important to spread awareness because more than 85% of blindness is preventable if people know how to address the risk factors,” said Dr. Lal. Public health campaigns focused on eye health, proper nutrition, diabetes management, and timely access to medical care are crucial in preventing millions from losing their vision.
As India continues to grapple with high rates of visual impairment, experts advocate for increased government and community-led initiatives that provide affordable eye care and encourage regular screenings, especially in rural and underserved areas.
