Sight is something many of us take for granted. Yet today, at least 1 billion people around the world live with sight loss simply because they lack access to eye care. The vast majority — 90% — live in low- and middle-income countries, with the greatest burden in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. This is not only a health issue, but a major development challenge, with an annual productivity loss of US $411 billion. Without action, this crisis will worsen. By 2050, the number of people affected is expected to rise to 1.8 billion. 

That’s why the Vision Atlas is here, it is more than just a data platform — it’s a powerful tool to change the story. 

Access to clear, timely and reliable data is essential for creating real, lasting change. By shining a light on inequities in access to eye care, gaps in available data, and the far-reaching effects of untreated sight loss, the Vision Atlas empowers stakeholders to prioritise eye health.  

Created for decision-makers, advocates, planners, and partners across health, development, education, and business, it equips you with the data needed to turn evidence into action. It supports smarter planning, more efficient resource allocation, and the design of targeted interventions that meet real-world needs.  

The Vision Atlas has come a long way since its beginnings in 2017, when it first brought the Global Burden of Vision Loss to life through compelling visualisations. That early effort laid the groundwork for a more transparent, data-informed conversation around eye health. In 2021, the Vision Atlas took a major step forward with the launch of its first digital platform — a significant leap that dramatically improved accessibility, allowing users around the world to explore eye health data more easily, intuitively, and interactively.  

Now, in 2025, the Vision Atlas has undergone its most transformative update yet. It has evolved into a dynamic, decision-driving tool — rich with new features, expanded data, and storytelling capabilities that inform action at every level. From its roots in visualisation to a full-fledged global resource, the Vision Atlas continues to grow in step with the movement for universal eye health. 

Powered by the latest findings from the Vision Loss Expert Group (VLEG), Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness (RAAB) studies, World Health Organization (WHO) Reports on Effective Coverage, ECSATs and Assistive Technology surveys alongside data from 2030 In Sight Progress surveys and the Eye Health Commitment Tracker. Together, they ensure that the data you see is both rigorous and relevant. 

We’ve listened to your needs and feedback to include many new features. The top 5 new features to explore are:  

• 1. 60+ data sources 
  Including VLEG, RAAB, and 2030 In Sight Progress — the most authoritative sources in eye health. 
• 2. Expanded country data pages 
  Discover new indicators like eye care integration and track national progress. 
• 3. Country comparison tool 
  Compare performance across countries and regions to identify gaps and opportunities. 
• 4. Enhanced visualisations 
  Interactive charts, new research displays, and easy-to-understand dashboards. 
• 5. Advocacy-ready data stories 
  Scroll-through narratives designed to support funding proposals, campaigns, and stakeholder engagement. 

I would like to acknowledge the incredible work of the Vision Atlas team in bringing this transformation to life – Anthea Burnett, Michael Morton and Mayinuer Yusufu.  

Thank you to our data contributors, the Vision Loss Expert Group, and RAAB repository for sharing the vision of enabling greater access to data. You continue to lead and enrich the data for global eye health. 

We appreciate the continued support of the Vision Atlas Sponsors, The Fred Hollows Foundation, SEVA, Johnson & Johnson, CBM, Sightsavers, Mission for Vision, The He Eye Group and Roche.  

This is just the beginning. With continuous updates and new features on the horizon, the Vision Atlas will keep evolving to serve your needs. 

Explore the new Vision Atlas today — and join us in building a more equitable future — where quality eye care is accessible to everyone, everywhere. 

Let’s make the future of eye health clearer — for everyone.