Bad eyesight costs the economy $411 billion a year—absenteeism, reduced productivity – ThePrint – WEF

Every year, on the second Thursday of October, the global community comes together to observe World Sight Day. The theme this year, Love Your Eyes at Work, serves as a helpful reminder that, in the context of our professional lives specifically, our vision is not only a priceless gift but also an irreplaceable tool.

The significance of workplace vision health cannot be overstated. As we navigate an increasingly digital and visually demanding world, our eyes are often the unsung heroes of our productivity and well-being.

Economic impact of eye health at work

A considerable economic toll exists in addition to the human cost. People who have visual impairments are 30% less likely to be employed and confront formidable obstacles in finding work. This has an adverse effect on families, communities and the economy through lost wages, diminished career opportunities and other negative results.

In addition, there are significant economic disparities, particularly between developed and developing countries. With almost four times as many cases of vision impairment as high-income regions, low- and middle-income regions face the biggest difficulties. The prevalence of vision impairment in a country’s workforce is strongly correlated with its economic development. Access to eye care and preventive measures remains a barrier in resource-constrained countries, compounding the problem further still.

In developing countries, where the burden of vision impairment is most pronounced, achieving the SDGs hinges on addressing the barriers to eye care. Improved vision leads to better educational outcomes and enhanced employability, which, in turn, contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty.

Recognizing the urgency of the issue, international organizations and policy-makers have been taking concerted actions to tackle vision health challenges. The IAPB, working alongside the ILO, has been at the forefront of campaigns to increase awareness and advance policies aimed at preventing and addressing vision concerns in work settings.

However, the challenges remain complex. In many developing nations, limited resources and infrastructure constraints make it difficult to provide comprehensive eye care services. Additionally, cultural and societal factors may hinder individuals from seeking help until their vision problems become severe.

Understanding the barriers to vision health in the workplace is essential. These challenges may consist of inadequate access to eye care services, a lack of understanding about eye health, and cultural stigmas associated with vision issues. The first step in overcoming them is to recognize these barriers.

For equitable access to vision care, a multi-pronged strategy is essential. This includes strengthening healthcare systems, providing affordable eyewear, and promoting workplace policies that prioritize vision health. Collaboration between governments, employers and healthcare providers is essential in addressing these challenges. In particular, the following action items should be considered:

1. Governments should consider implementing policies that require regular eye examinations for employees, especially those engaged in jobs that pose a high risk to vision health. Tax incentives and subsidies for eye care expenses can also encourage employers to invest in their employees’ vision health.

2. Private sector organizations can play a pivotal role in promoting workplace eye care. They can offer vision insurance, establish workplace wellness programmes that include eye health components, and partner with eye care providers to ensure employees have access to affordable vision care.

3. Raising awareness about the importance of vision health in the workplace is crucial. Companies can organize eye health education campaigns, distribute informational materials, and provide resources for employees to monitor their eye health. These efforts can contribute to a culture of eye care within organizations.

World Sight Day 2023 highlights the economic implications of vision health in the workplace. Addressing vision issues is not just a matter of individual health but a critical component of global economic stability and sustainable development.

As we reflect on this year’s theme, let us commit to prioritizing vision health in our professional lives. Governments, employers and each one of us have a responsibility to take proactive measures to make sure that everyone has healthy eyes. By doing this, we can boost productivity at work and help create a healthier, stronger global economy.