Women bear approximately two-thirds of the burden of blindness in the world,1 80% of which is preventable or treatable.2 This is a multi-faceted problem, and a result of cultural practices rather than physiology, which can range widely in different locations.
These practices may include:
- limited ability to venture to public places where health services are available;
- reduced priority in family financial decisions;
- low levels of education and minimal knowledge of eye health;
- restricted options due to remoteness and lack of transport; and
- negative feelings associated with wearing glasses.