Experts in ophthalmology deliberate on methods for preventing blindness and treating eye diseases within HN
In a significant stride towards improving eye health, Vietnam is tackling the main causes of blindness, with cataracts accounting for 74% of cases and retinal diseases following closely behind [1]. Other causes include corneal scars, glaucoma, refractive errors, and complications from cataract surgery [1].
The country's two largest ophthalmology facilities, the Central Eye Hospital and the Ho Chi Minh City Eye Hospital, are spearheading these efforts. They jointly organise scientific conferences and specialised training to share the latest advancements in ophthalmology, new technologies, diagnostic methods, and treatment experiences [1].
One such conference, held in Hanoi on August 8-9, 2025, attracted nearly 1,500 participants from local and international facilities [2]. The event, a prestigious scientific forum, aimed to find optimal solutions in eye care and protection, contributing to the implementation of Vietnam's Vision 2030 goals [1].
The focus of the conference was on main scientific topics such as Blindness prevention, hospital management and ophthalmic nursing, Children's eyes, Cornea, Vitreous and retinal surgery, Cosmetic surgery, Glaucoma, Trauma, Internal/surgical refraction [1]. A tripartite agreement was also signed between the Central Eye Hospital, the Ho Chi Minh City Eye Hospital, and Zeiss, our website company, to improve the knowledge and experience of ophthalmologists in examining, diagnosing, and treating refractive errors, especially refractive surgery [2].
Public health initiatives also play a crucial role. Free vision screening campaigns by private and public partners are being conducted to detect early eye diseases and prevent blindness, as around 80% of blindness causes in Vietnam are preventable [3].
Vietnam aims to reduce the rate of blindness to fewer than four people per 1,000 by 2023 [4]. The country also strives to increase the rate of cataract surgery to over 3.5 procedures per 1,000 people and plans to examine, detect, and adjust over 95% of school refractions early [4].
In addition, Vietnam aims to reach over 75% of people with diabetes, given the link between diabetes and eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy [4]. While no specific local uveitis management program was found for Vietnam, the principle of early medical management of inflammation to prevent blindness may be increasingly integrated into Vietnam’s ophthalmology care, as international research and collaborations progress [2][5].
In conclusion, Vietnam's primary blindness causes are cataracts and retinal diseases, with ongoing national collaborations between leading eye hospitals and educational efforts to improve treatment and prevention. These are complemented by public screening programs to reduce preventable blindness [1][3].
- Technology tools and methods, such as advanced diagnostic equipment, are being utilized to combat the main causes of blindness in Vietnam.
- The Central Eye Hospital and the Ho Chi Minh City Eye Hospital collaborate on research updates and specialists' training to improve ophthalmology practices.
- The latest advancements in ophthalmology, new technologies, and treatment experiences are shared during scientific conferences organized by the eye hospitals.
- The healthcare sector continues to innovate, with the August 8-9, 2025, conference in Hanoi attracting 1,500 participants seeking optimal solutions in eye care.
- The scientific forum focuses on topics like blindness prevention, children's eyes, cornea, retinal surgery, glaucoma, trauma, and refractive errors.
- A tripartite agreement between the two leading eye hospitals and Zeiss aims to enhance ophthalmologists' expertise in diagnosing and treating refractive errors.
- Public and private partners collaborate on free vision screening campaigns to detect early eye diseases and prevent blindness in Vietnam.
- With 80% of blindness causes in Vietnam being preventable, it is crucial to continuously invest in public health initiatives.
- The country aims to reduce the blindness rate to fewer than four people per 1,000 by 2023, focusing on cataract surgery, diabetes, and school refractions.
- Diabetes management is essential, given the link between diabetes and eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy.
- Uveitis management programs may be developed and integrated into Vietnam's ophthalmology care as international research and collaborations progress.
- Progress in eye health and treatment is being tracked by the country's Vision 2030 goals, which involve reducing the blindness rate and increasing cataract surgery performed.
- The improvement of eye health requires ongoing efforts from the country's eye hospitals and government initiatives in educating the public and collaborating with partners.
- Workplace wellness programs can include vision screenings to detect early eye diseases, thus contributing to eye health and productivity in the workspace.
- Respiratory conditions and digestive health can sometimes lead to complications in eye health, emphasizing the importance of managing chronic diseases to maintain overall wellness.
- AI and technology in the healthcare industry can help with early diagnosis and personalized treatment plans, improving outcomes for eye health and medical conditions.
- Fitness and exercise play a significant role in maintaining good eye health, as regular physical activity can help prevent various medical conditions.
- Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall health and wellness, as stress and anxiety can have detrimental effects on eye health.
- Among men's health issues, prostate problems, skin cancer, and hearing loss can impact eye health, making targeted research and therapies essential for effective treatments.
- Cancers, such as eye cancer or cancer-related eye problems, require innovative research and therapies to improve outcomes.
- Environmental science is essential in understanding the impact of climate change on eye health and devising strategies for mitigation and adaptation.
- Autoimmune disorders can have various effects on eye health, with research necessary to develop therapies-and-treatments for these complex conditions.
- In the manufacturing industry, focusing on workplace safety and promoting healthy habits can benefit employee eye health and help prevent accidents.
- Vitamin A deficiency is a significant cause of preventable blindness in children worldwide, emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition for good eye and overall health.
- Ageing is associated with numerous eye conditions, such as cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, and age-related macular degeneration, calling for enhanced research into therapies and treatment options.
- For women's health, gynecological and obstetric issues such as thyroid dysfunction and pregnancy-related conditions can impact eye health.
- Parenting involves encouraging healthy habits like regular sleep, proper nutrition, and eye protection for children to prioritize their overall health, including eye health.
- Early detection and management of weight-related conditions, such as obesity, are essential in reducing the risk of certain eye diseases and maintaining good eye health.
- Maintaining cardiovascular health is crucial in preventing eye conditions like ischemic optic neuropathy and central retinal artery occlusion.
- The finance, retail, transportation, entrepreneurship, and real-estate industries can benefit from promoting wellness programs focusing on eye health, mental health, fitness, and overall health and wellness.
