Blindness - Infographic

Blindness is the loss of vision. Some of the leading causes of blindness include cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, vitamin A deficiency, age-related macular degeneration, corneal opacities, and trachoma. Blindness due to age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy is increasing worldwide. However, blindness caused by infection is decreasing due to public awareness.

Globally, 285 million people are estimated to be visually impaired, out of which 39 million are blind, and 246 have impaired vision. About 90% of the world's visually impaired are from the lower socioeconomic group. Nearly 80% of all visual impairment can be prevented or cured. Uncorrected refractive errors are the main cause of moderate and severe visual impairment. Cataracts remain the leading cause of blindness in middle- and low-income countries.

Maintaining healthy vision starts from the food you eat. Eating foods rich in vitamin A, omega 3 fatty acids help protect the eyes. Quitting smoking prevents the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataract. Wearing UV protective spectacles and sunglasses can prevent damage to the eyes. Practicing eye exercises such as blinking and the 20-20-20 rule reduces eye strain. Eyes are an important part of your health, so taking some simple steps can help maintain healthy eyes.