Vision 2020: where are we?

Curr Opin Ophthalmol. 2020 Mar;31(2):81-84. doi: 10.1097/ICU.0000000000000647.

Abstract

Purpose of review: To describe the VISION 2020: The Right to Sight, global initiative for the elimination of avoidable blindness, the contribution of glaucoma to the magnitude of global blindness and priorities going forward.

Recent findings: Although the target of the World Health Organization's Global Action Plan (2014-2019) has not been met in terms of 25% reduction in avoidable blindness, there is evidence that the contribution of glaucoma to blindness and vision impairment is reducing. Yet this focus on a threshold of visual acuity by which to measure prevalence underestimates the true burden of glaucoma. Recent population-based studies demonstrate the scale of the unmet need.

Summary: Scaling up of integrated people-centered eye care, by embedding glaucoma detection and care pathways in health systems with a strong focus on primary healthcare, is necessary. Solutions include reinforcing existing pathways while emphasizing high-quality glaucoma care, in addition to novel solutions such as self-testing, digital portable technology, artificial intelligence, and multilevel care pathways that extend to the most underserved parts of the global community.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Blindness / epidemiology
  • Blindness / prevention & control*
  • Eye Diseases / epidemiology
  • Eye Diseases / prevention & control*
  • Global Health
  • Humans
  • International Agencies
  • Prevalence
  • Vision, Ocular / physiology*
  • Visual Acuity