The World Health Organization (WHO) is calling on countries to ramp up efforts to make cataract surgery more accessible, warning that a lack of treatment is putting millions at risk of preventable blindness.
In a new appeal, the UN health agency highlighted that cataracts the clouding of the eye’s lens currently affect more than 94 million people globally. While the condition can be reversed with a simple, 15-minute surgical procedure, nearly half of those in need worldwide still lack access to treatment.
Who report that a study published in The Lancet Global Health indicates that although global cataract surgery coverage has increased by approximately 15% over the past two decades, rising demand due to aging populations is outpacing progress. Current projections suggest coverage will only grow by about 8.4% this decad, far below the World Health Assembly’s target of a 30% increase by 2030.
“Cataract surgery is one of the most powerful tools we have to restore vision and transform lives,” said Devora Kestel, Director of the WHO’s Department of Noncommunicable Diseases. “When people regain their sight, they regain independence, dignity, and opportunity.”
The report highlights severe regional and gender disparities. The African Region faces the most significant gap, with three out of four people requiring surgery going untreated. Globally, women consistently face lower access to care than men.
Barriers to treatment include a shortage of trained eye-care professionals, high out of pocket costs, long waiting times, and a lack of awareness about available services.
To close the gap, the WHO is urging governments to integrate eye exams into primary healthcare, invest in surgical infrastructure, and expand the eye care workforce in rural areas. Officials stress that prioritizing women and marginalized communities is essential to eliminating persistent inequities.
“With sustained commitment,” the WHO stated, “cataract surgery can move from being out of reach for millions to a universally accessible intervention.”
