Our Solution for Childhood Vision Loss
Childhood blindness is a serious global health problem.
90 million children and adolescents live with vision loss. This number will grow significantly if we do nothing.
One of the most effective ways to combat blindness is screening and treating children at an early age. For decades, our International Pediatric Program has supported vital school screenings and follow-up care, including free glasses and surgery.
So far, Combat Blindness International has screened over 711,000 children, so they can learn and thrive. And we’re just getting started.
Why We Must Act
Pediatric blindness is a life-or-death issue in the countries where we serve.
Up to 60% of children 5 and under in low-income countries die within a year of becoming blind.
It is estimated that 80% of learning takes place visually, which is why vision is crucial to a child’s education, advancement and long-term success.
Visually impaired children face major educational barriers and often drop out of school. By catching and correcting eye problems by the age of 5 or 6, school screenings increase a child’s visual years, helping them succeed in school and beyond.
711,000+
Children Screened
2,000+
Child Surgeries Supported
26,200+
Glasses Distributed
Educational Equity
80% of what a child learns is done visually. Without screenings and treatment for visual impairment, children do not have access to equal education and opportunities as their classmates.
Awareness
School screenings increase community awareness of eye health. They help show that treatment is available, and reduce stigma associated with vision problems.
Refractive Errors
Our International Pediatric Program focuses on refractive errors, i.e. blurry or unfocused vision. Screening for refractive errors and providing glasses increases educational potential and reduces preventable visual impairment and blindness.
Sight Years
By treating a child’s visual impairment with eyeglasses or surgery, a child can receive 60 years or more of sight and opportunity. The earlier we treat, the longer a child can live a productive life with his or her sight.