An estimated $410.9bn was lost in global economic productivity in 2020 due to reduced workers as a result of sight loss, according to a report.
Research published by Deloitte, the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) and Roche has highlighted the need for increased government investment in eye care services to prevent negative impacts on global productivity.
Peter Holland, Chief Executive of IAPB, said: ‘Sight loss is not only a health issue, but an economic one too. A loss of sight can have wide-ranging impacts on a person’s life, including on their cognitive development, motor skills, physical activities, socialisation, and overall wellbeing, making it difficult to remain in employment.
‘As this report outlines, investment in eye care services is now critical to avoid escalating social, education and economic challenges in the near future.’