Vision Loss: A Public Health Problem

 Five Criteria That Define Vision Loss as a Public Health Problem as Proposed by Saaddine, Venkat Narayan & Vinicor (2003)

1. Is vision loss a common problem among many individuals?

Vision loss is a prevalent issue among Americans aged 40 years and older, with more than 3.4 million affected by blindness or visual impairment. The problem is estimated to be even more widespread, with up to 21 million people experiencing vision problems and 80 million Americans at risk of developing potentially blinding eye diseases. The main reasons for vision loss include cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and glaucoma.

2. Does vision loss have a significant impact on illness, quality of life, and expenses?

Yes, a large number of people are affected by vision loss. Not only does it have a significant impact on their quality of life, but it is also linked to other health issues such as depression, diabetes, and cognitive decline. The costs associated with vision loss, including medical expenses and lost productivity, are estimated to be over $35 billion.

Is there a recent or expected increase in the rate of vision loss?

Yes. The number of individuals experiencing vision loss is expected to increase as the population ages and the incidence of diabetes continues to rise. Without proper intervention, estimates predict that the population affected by blindness and visual impairment will double by 2030.

4. Is there a public perception that vision loss is a significant concern?

Yes. Vision loss is considered a significant public health problem in the United States, being one of the top ten causes of disability and a common fear among many individuals.

5. Is it possible   to act on vision loss at a community or public health level?

Yes. Research has demonstrated that early detection and treatment can significantly reduce cases of blindness and vision impairment. Effective and cost-efficient methods to detect and treat diabetic retinopathy exist, but the majority of people with diabetes do not receive the recommended screening, with large variations in screening rates across different healthcare settings. Cataract removal surgery is an effective way to restore vision and is cost-effective, however, unoperated senile cataracts remain a major cause of blindness among African Americans. Glaucoma can be controlled and vision loss prevented through early detection and treatment, however, half of the people with glaucoma remain undiagnosed and it remains the leading cause of blindness among African Americans.

Public health aims to address the issues related to vision loss by conducting research on a population level to identify the scale, characteristics, causes, and trends of vision loss, and also by creating and implementing cost-effective interventions based on evidence, to ensure access to vision care and promote healthy behaviors that prevent the onset of vision loss, and improve the health and quality of life for those who have already experienced vision loss.