Adopting a comprehensive approach to ensure the delivery of gender-specific eye healthcare services in low- and middle-income nations

Gender disparities in the domain of eye health refer to the inequitable distribution of vision impairment and access to ophthalmic care services among men and women. A wide range of factors-cum-barriers have limited the utilization of eye-care services by women in low- and middle-income nations, and these cumulatively have accounted for poor eye outcomes among them. Acknowledging the high prevalence of eye morbidities among women, the existing disparities, and the specific barriers that prevent women from availing timely eye healthcare services, there is an immense need to plan and implement targeted interventions to make it easier for women to reduce their sufferings and to improve the overall quality of life. In conclusion, the presence of gender disparities and gender-specific barriers to eye health has emphasized the need for framing gender-responsive policies and delivery strategies to promote equity and better health outcomes for everyone. The collective implementation of strategies involving different stakeholders can significantly aid in the creation of gender-responsive eye health systems, which will ensure that no woman or girl is left behind in the battle against avoidable blindness.