Improving eye health could provide a significant economic boost to the UK, with new research revealing that better eye care could potentially add £10 billion annually to the nation’s economy. This figure is nearly double the value of the UK’s film and TV industry, highlighting the substantial financial benefits of addressing avoidable sight loss.
Released on World Sight Day, the study conducted by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB) and Professor Kevin Frick from Johns Hopkins University underscores the urgent need to focus on eye health as a component of workplace wellbeing. The research indicates that the UK stands among the top ten countries with the highest potential economic gains from improved eye health.
The report notes that avoidable sight loss costs the UK economy £10 billion each year. This includes costs related to reduced productivity and increased healthcare expenditures. It is estimated that 30% of individuals with sight loss face diminished employment opportunities, while 90% of sight loss cases are preventable with timely intervention and treatment.
Peter Holland, CEO of IAPB and spokesperson for the Love Your Eyes campaign, emphasised the economic and personal impact of sight loss. “Business leaders have made strides in addressing various aspects of workplace wellbeing, such as mental health and menopause. However, World Sight Day is an opportunity to spotlight eye health and integrate it into workplace wellness programmes,” he said.
The study highlights the growing need for eye health awareness in light of the increasing screen time associated with modern work environments. With 79% of the UK’s economic output coming from the service sector and 83% of the workforce engaged in service-related roles, proper eye care is crucial for maintaining productivity and preventing eye strain.
Globally, sight loss imposes a staggering economic burden of US$411 billion each year, according to the Lancet Global Health Commission on Global Eye Health. The report suggests that improved eye health could mitigate these costs significantly, benefiting both individuals and the broader economy.
Holland calls for businesses to adopt strategies that promote eye health, including providing access to eye care services, integrating eye health into insurance plans, and educating employees about proper eye care. “Sight loss has a profound impact on personal and professional lives, affecting not only productivity but also quality of life. It is imperative for businesses to address this issue proactively,” he added.
Michael Rogers, CEO of Starfolio, a prominent UK media company, supports the call for increased focus on eye health within workplace wellness initiatives. “Prioritising eye health is not just a corporate responsibility but an investment in the productivity and overall health of the workforce. My own experience with blindness has shown me the value of good vision for personal and professional success,” Rogers said.
As businesses and organisations reflect on the findings of this research, there is a clear call to action for improving eye health across the UK workforce. By addressing avoidable sight loss and investing in eye health, the UK can unlock significant economic benefits and enhance the wellbeing of its employees.
For more information about the Love Your Eyes campaign and how to incorporate eye health into workplace wellbeing strategies, visit Love Your Eyes.