Vision Correction Could Double Children's Lifetime Earnings

A new finding from the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) suggests that early identification and correction of vision problems in children could significantly boost their lifetime earnings. The IAPB's research indicates that in 23 countries, including the United States and Canada, a simple eye test and glasses could double a child's lifetime earnings. This is based on a study that found uncorrected refractive error, a leading cause of vision impairment in children, results in 243,000 lost school years annually in the United States and over 23,000 in Canada.

The IAPB's research also shows that if vision problems are identified and corrected by the age of five and continued through to the age of 18, a child's average lifetime earnings in the United States could increase by 105%, while in Canada, that figure is 98%.

The IAPB is urging governments in these countries to ensure every child has access to sight tests and glasses. The organization is also encouraging parents to arrange routine eye tests for their young children, as the impact of uncorrected refractive error can be profound. The impact of uncorrected refractive error results in 6.3 million equivalent years of schooling loss annually, with the loss split almost evenly between richer and poorer countries, totaling $173 billion annually.

The IAPB has launched the Love Your Eyes Back-to-School campaign, which includes content for school assemblies, in-class activities, and take-home materials for children to share with their parents and caregivers. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of early vision care for children.

To support better vision, the IAPB is also organizing the first-ever Global Summit for Eye Health in Antigua and Barbuda on November 2nd. Heads of States and partners will make a series of commitments to improve eye care services worldwide at this summit.

The IAPB's research highlights the significant economic impact of uncorrected refractive error, underscoring the importance of early intervention. The impact of uncorrected refractive error results in 6.3 million equivalent years of schooling loss annually, with the loss split almost evenly between richer and poorer countries, totaling $173 billion annually. The IAPB's findings suggest that if vision problems are identified and corrected early, a child's average lifetime earnings could double in 23 countries worldwide.