When we talk about women's health, we often discuss issues like maternal health, reproductive rights, and gender-based violence, eye health is often overlooked. This International Women’s Day, let us understand the barriers women face in accessing adequate care and the importance of promoting eye health among women. We spoke to Dr Rishi Raj Borah, Country Director, Orbis (India), who explained the importance of eye health and ways to promote it.
The Significance of Women's Eye Health
“Vision is not just a matter of sight; it's a fundamental aspect of human experience, influencing education, employment and overall quality of life. However, women are disproportionately affected by vision impairment and blindness globally”, said Dr Borah.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), women and girls constitute two-thirds of blind people globally. This disparity is not merely biological; it is a result of socioeconomic factors, cultural norms and unequal access to healthcare.
Barriers To Eye Health for Women
Several barriers inhibit women’s access to eye care services. Economic constraints often prevent women from seeking timely treatment for eye conditions. Dr Borah added, “In many societies, women are also burdened with caregiving responsibilities, leaving little time for their own health needs. Moreover, cultural beliefs and gender norms may deter women from prioritising their eye health or seeking assistance for vision problems.”
According to a 2021 study, the three most common eye conditions affecting women are cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. By 2050, it is anticipated that the incidence of eye diseases will have doubled due to factors, such as diabetes, longer life expectancies, and other chronic illnesses.
Intersectionality: Addressing Multiple Layers of Discrimination
“It’s crucial to recognise the intersectionality of gender with other factors, such as age, socio-economic status and geographical location. Women in marginalised communities, including those living in rural areas or conflict zones, face compounded challenges in accessing eye care services”, said Dr Borah. Intersectional approaches are essential to understanding and addressing the diverse needs of women across different contexts.
Empowering Women Through Education and Awareness
“Education plays a pivotal role in empowering women to take charge of their eye health. By raising awareness about common eye conditions, preventive measures and available treatments, women can make informed decisions about their well-being”, added Dr Borah. Efforts to promote eye health literacy must be tailored to the specific cultural, social and linguistic needs of diverse communities.
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Promoting Gender Equality in Eye Health
Dr Borah highlighted, “Gender-responsive approaches are indispensable in addressing the disparities in eye health. This includes ensuring gender balance in the healthcare workforce, promoting women's leadership in eye health initiatives and actively involving women in decision-making processes.” By mainstreaming gender considerations into eye health policies and programs, we can create more inclusive and effective interventions.
Bottomline
Dr Borah concluded, “Prioritising women's eye health is important as they are more likely to suffer from sight-threatening conditions. By dismantling barriers, promoting education and awareness and adopting gender-responsive approaches, we can empower women to safeguard their vision and realise their full potential.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you are dealing with any eye issues to get the necessary treatment.]