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Abstract

Cataract surgery has virtually eliminated cataract blindness in the developed world. However, in the economically developing areas of the world it is a staggering and escalating problem where it is the leading cause of blindness affecting 16-20 million people. Outcomes research has clearly shown that modern cataract surgery with intraocular lens implantation is a safe and effective means of restoring visual function and improving vision-related quality of life. Several recent developments provide hope in the global fight against cataract blindness: decrease in the cost of modern surgery; available models of infrastructure development; and a global plan for the elimination of avoidable blindness.