VISION LOSS: THE WORLD’S LARGEST UNADDRESSED DISABILITY

More than 1 billion people live with vision loss that could be treated or entirely prevented. The problem? 90% of these people live in low- and middle-income countries where quality eye care is unaffordable, hard to access, or simply doesn’t exist. Orbis is leading the movement to change this.

VISION LOSS IS A HUMAN RIGHTS ISSUE

Vision is a basic human right. Everyone, everywhere deserves healthy vision and all the opportunities it creates. Healthy vision is about more than the ability to see clearly. Vision loss creates barriers to education, employment, social inclusion, and other essential opportunities. It contributes to inequality and perpetuates vulnerabilities.

The most damaging effects of vision loss are experienced by individuals and families already living in poverty. Escaping the cycle of poor vision and poverty can seem impossible.

Vision loss is also a gender issue. Traditional gender roles and cultural norms mean women and girls face greater barriers and have less access to eye care. More women and girls suffer the consequences of vison loss than men and boys.

ORBIS IS CHANGING THE WAY THE WORLD SEES

For over 40 years, Orbis has been leading a movement to create a world where everyone can access the eye care they need to thrive. Together with our local partners, we help train eye care providers, strengthen health facilities, tackle barriers to access, and empower people and communities with the knowledge and agency to create change for themselves.

All across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and Latin America, we help ensure even the most vulnerable people in the most difficult-to-reach places can access the eye care they urgently need – the eye care that could change their lives.

Whether it’s a simple pair of glasses or a complex surgery, Orbis helps strengthen the local people, places, and systems that make quality eye care equitable, affordable, and accessible for all.

HEALTHY VISION CREATES BRIGHTER FUTURES

When we restore vision, we transform lives. We give a child the chance to go to school and get an education. We give a parent the opportunity to work and earn a living. We give an elderly person the ability to take care of themselves and live independently.

When we restore vision, we help give back what blindness takes away. We empower individuals, families, and entire communities to lift themselves out of poverty and work towards a better, brighter future.