Health authorities in Peru and Mexico urge eye care to prevent blindness

Health authorities in Peru and Mexico are highlighting the importance of eye care to prevent vision loss. In Peru, the Ministry of Health (Minsa) reported that ocular trauma is a leading cause of unilateral blindness. So far in 2026, Minsa facilities have provided 8,586 specialized medical consultations for eye and orbital injuries, including corneal abrasions, severe contusions, and complex traumas. These injuries frequently occur in males, children, and young people due to household accidents, workplace hazards in construction or agriculture, traffic accidents, and contact sports.

In Mexico, medical experts are focusing on the aging population to combat vision loss caused by cataracts, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. The Instituto Oftavisión notes that 80% of blindness cases globally are preventable through timely diagnosis and treatment. With Mexico's elderly population expected to grow significantly by 2040, health advocates are urging annual ophthalmological exams for seniors, noting that many conditions can coexist and require comprehensive periodic reviews.