70% of blindness is caused by cataracts.

(Chinhphu.vn) - In Vietnam, there are currently about 2 million people who are blind, 70% of whom suffer from cataracts – a treatable disease if detected early. Notably, the majority of blindness cases occur among the elderly, directly affecting their quality of life and ability to care for themselves.

The Central Committee of the Vietnam Association of Elderly People, in coordination with the Ministry of Health, is organizing the humanitarian program "Bright Eyes for the Elderly" for the period 2025-2028. - Photo: VGP

On the occasion of the 85th anniversary of the Traditional Day of Vietnamese Elderly People (June 6, 1941 - June 6, 2026), the Central Committee of the Vietnam Association of Elderly People, in coordination with the Ministry of Health and several other units, is organizing the humanitarian program "Bright Eyes for the Elderly" for the period 2025-2028.

The program aims to promote the dissemination of the Party's guidelines and the State's policies and laws on caring for, protecting, and promoting the role of the elderly, while raising awareness among all levels, sectors, and society as a whole about healthcare in general and eye health in particular for the elderly.

Blindness due to cataracts mainly affects the elderly because the disease is detected late.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 43 million people are blind and 295 million have moderate to severe vision impairment, with approximately 80% of the causes being preventable or treatable.

This further underscores the urgent need for eye care for the elderly in the context of our country's rapidly aging population.

Through close coordination between the Vietnam Association of the Elderly and the health sector, specialized eye hospitals, organizations, businesses, and philanthropists, millions of elderly people have received information, advice, and screening for eye diseases; many elderly people in difficult circumstances have received support for treatment, cataract surgery, and vision restoration, regaining their sight and joy in life.

The goal is to ensure that over 90% of elderly people receive eye examinations and screenings.

Specifically, the humanitarian program "Bright Eyes for the Elderly" for the period 2025-2028 aims to: train over 90% of key officials of the Elderly Association at all levels in eye care skills; provide over 90% of elderly people with basic eye examinations and screenings, distribute medication, and give gifts; and ensure that 100% of elderly people diagnosed with cataracts receive timely treatment.

The program prioritizes implementation in remote, mountainous, and island areas from the very first year, then expands nationwide, demonstrating the spirit of "leaving no one behind." At the event, approximately 200 elderly people received free eye examinations and consultations. Notably, 50 cases will receive free cataract surgery.

The program not only contributes to reducing the rate of vision impairment and blindness in the elderly, but also helps many elderly people continue to work, live, and participate in social activities, reducing the burden on their families and communities.

The Chairman of the Association of Elderly People called on organizations, businesses, and individuals both domestically and internationally to continue to support and provide resources to ensure the program achieves practical results, helping the elderly live happily, healthily, and contentedly, and continue to contribute to society.

HM

Source: https://baochinhphu.vn/70-nguoi-mu-loa-do-duc-thuy-tinh-the-102260602163120009.htm