Barriers to accessing cataract surgery

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide. The prevalence of any type of cataract has been estimated at 54% in adults aged 60 years and older. Cataracts can be cured via a fast, relatively cheap, and highly effective surgery, meaning that most cataract-related vision loss can be restored. However, global availability of effective cataract surgery is currently insufficient, with large disparities in access to this care. As a condition that increases in likelihood with age, the burden of unmet cataract need will only continue to grow with the increasing size of older adult populations.