Eye care investment could yield $2.31b in benefits

Planned investment of around $130 million in eye health over the next five years could generate an estimated $2.31 billion in economic benefits by improving productivity, increasing workforce participation and preventing avoidable blindness.
The government has committed the investment for 2026-2030, aiming to provide primary eye care to around 20 million people, perform one million free cataract surgeries and distribute 10 million pairs of spectacles.
The projected economic benefits were highlighted by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), which said improved access to eye care could enhance educational outcomes, boost productivity and help more people remain in the workforce, according to a press release.
The commitment was announced at the first-ever Global Summit for Eye Health, hosted by the Government of Antigua and Barbuda and co-hosted by Bangladesh, Guyana, Ireland and Nigeria, in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO). The summit was convened by IAPB.
With a population of around 175.7 million, Bangladesh faces significant challenges in ensuring affordable eye care, particularly for underserved communities.
Millions of people suffer from vision impairment that could be prevented or treated through timely access to spectacles, cataract surgery and community-based eye care services.
State Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr M A Muhit said the government was committed to expanding vision screening and preventing avoidable blindness through the national healthcare system.
He said the government would work with local and international development partners to ensure eye care services reached people across the country.
Meanwhile, VisionSpring announced plans to expand its operations in Bangladesh, aiming to provide eyeglasses to 7.5 million people by 2030.
Misha Mahjabeen, managing director of VisionSpring Bangladesh, said the organisation would strengthen partnerships with factories, global brands and drivers' associations to reach garment and transport workers.
She said VisionSpring would also expand community-based networks, provide technical assistance and promote affordable spectacles to improve access to eye care among underserved populations.
Research in Bangladesh has highlighted the health and economic benefits of improved eye care.
A nationwide study found that 3.2% of adults aged 35 and above had glaucoma, underscoring the need for early detection and treatment.
Meanwhile, the THRIVE trial found that providing reading glasses to workers engaged in tasks requiring near vision increased their median monthly income by 33.4%.
Peter Holland, chief executive officer of IAPB, said the summit had brought together governments, development agencies and private-sector organisations to strengthen commitments to improving access to eye care.
He said investment in eye health could help people continue their education, remain employed and contribute more fully to their families and communities.