According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 2.2 billion people worldwide suffer from some form of visual impairment. Of these, an estimated 1 billion people have a condition that could have been prevented or is easily treatable. The most common cause of visual impairment is uncorrected refractive errors, which can be corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery.
Although the exact percentage of the population that wears glasses is difficult to determine, we can make some general estimates based on available data. Here are some key statistics and factors to consider:
Age: As people age, their risk of developing refractive errors increases. Presbyopia, a condition in which the lens of the eye loses its flexibility and makes it difficult to focus on close objects, is also common among older adults. Therefore, the prevalence of glasses wearers tends to increase with age.
Geography: The prevalence of visual impairment and refractive errors varies widely by region. For example, according to a study published in the Lancet Global Health journal, the prevalence of blindness and visual impairment is highest in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, where access to eye care services is limited. In contrast, the prevalence of myopia (nearsightedness) is highest in East and Southeast Asia, where the use of electronic devices and a lack of outdoor activity have been linked to its development.
Income level: People in low- and middle-income countries are more likely to have uncorrected refractive errors and less likely to have access to eye care services. This is due in part to a lack of resources, but also because eyeglasses are often considered a luxury item rather than a medical necessity.
Gender: Some studies suggest that women are more likely than men to have uncorrected refractive errors and to be visually impaired. This may be because women are more likely to have limited access to health care and eye care services, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Based on these factors, we can make some general estimates of the percentage of the population that wears glasses:
Globally, the WHO estimates that approximately 20% of adults have uncorrected refractive errors that require glasses or other visual aids.
In high-income countries, the percentage of the population that wears glasses is likely higher, as access to eye care services and the ability to afford glasses is greater.
In low- and middle-income countries, the percentage of the population that wears glasses is likely lower, as access to eye care services and the ability to afford glasses is more limited.
The percentage of the population that wears glasses is likely higher among older adults, women, and people in regions with higher prevalence of myopia or visual impairment.
In conclusion, while the exact percentage of the population that wears glasses is difficult to determine, we know that visual impairment and uncorrected refractive errors are common worldwide. Access to eye care services and the ability to afford glasses are major factors that influence the percentage of the population that wears glasses, along with age, gender, and geography. Ultimately, improving access to eye care services and promoting awareness of the importance of regular eye exams and the use of corrective lenses can help reduce the burden of visual impairment and improve quality of life for millions of people around the world