Eye Health

Good Vision. Better Lives.

Our eyes connect us to the world. From childhood learning and education to employment, driving, recreation, and healthy ageing, good vision is fundamental to almost every aspect of daily life. Protecting eye health is therefore not only important for individuals but also for families, communities, healthcare systems, and society as a whole.

Why Eye Health Matters

More than 2.2 billion people worldwide are estimated to live with vision impairment or blindness, with at least one billion of these cases considered preventable or yet to be addressed. Many common eye conditions develop gradually and may not produce noticeable symptoms until permanent damage has occurred. Regular eye examinations can detect problems early, allowing timely treatment that helps preserve vision and maintain quality of life.

Good eye health enables people to learn more effectively, work productively, live independently, remain socially connected, and enjoy a higher quality of life. Conversely, vision loss can affect education, employment, mental health, mobility, and personal independence, while increasing the risk of falls, social isolation, depression, and reduced wellbeing.

Eye Health Is a Public Health Priority

Eye health extends far beyond the consulting room. As populations grow and age, the number of people living with eye diseases such as myopia, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and cataract continues to increase. Without effective prevention, early detection, and treatment, these conditions place an increasing burden on individuals, families, employers, and healthcare systems.

Investing in eye health benefits society by reducing avoidable blindness, improving educational attainment and workplace productivity, supporting healthy ageing, and reducing healthcare and social care costs. Promoting equitable access to high-quality eye care is therefore an essential component of a modern and sustainable healthcare system.

Protecting Your Vision

Many eye conditions can be prevented, detected early, or successfully managed. You can help protect your vision by:

• Having regular comprehensive eye examinations.
• Controlling chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
• Protecting your eyes from excessive ultraviolet (UV) exposure.
• Using appropriate eye protection during work, sport, and other high-risk activities.
• Seeking prompt professional advice if you notice changes in your vision or experience eye pain, flashes of light, new floaters, or sudden vision loss.

Our Commitment

The Eyes Do Matter Research Network (EDMRN) is committed to advancing eye health through research, education, innovation, and collaboration. By generating high-quality evidence and promoting evidence-based practice, we aim to improve the prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of eye disease. Together with our partners, we are working towards a future where everyone has the opportunity to enjoy healthy vision throughout their lives.