Impact of cataract on the livelihood income status of patients availing free cataract surgery in India

Pankaj Vishwakarma; Amit Mondal; Dhanaji Ranpise; Lijiraj Sundararaj; Shajer Shaikh; Shobhana Chavan; Elizabeth Kurian

doi:10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20251703

Authors

Pankaj Vishwakarma Department of Programme Impact, Mission for Vision, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Amit Mondal Department of Programme Impact, Mission for Vision, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Dhanaji Ranpise Department of Programme Impact, Mission for Vision, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Lijiraj Sundararaj Department of Programme Impact, Mission for Vision, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Shajer Shaikh Department of Programme Impact, Mission for Vision, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Shobhana Chavan Department of Programme Impact, Mission for Vision, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
Elizabeth Kurian Department of Programme Impact, Mission for Vision, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2394-6040.ijcmph20251703

Keywords:

Cataract surgery, Employment, Visual impairment, Socio-economic impact, Free healthcare programs, Income loss, India

Abstract

Background: Cataract remains the leading cause of blindness globally, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries like India. Beyond health consequences, cataract-related visual impairment significantly impacts employment, income, and financial independence. While free cataract surgery programs exist, their effectiveness in restoring economic stability remains underexplored. This study evaluates the socio-economic impact of cataract-induced visual impairment, focusing on employment and earning potential.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted across 15 diverse Indian locations, covering urban, semi-urban, and rural areas. A total of 918 patients undergoing free cataract surgery were recruited and interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Data on demographics, employment history, income levels, and willingness to return to work post-surgery were collected. Preoperative visual acuity was categorized into four groups: very good (6/6–6/12), good (<6/12–6/18), borderline (<6/18–6/60), and poor (<6/60). Statistical analysis assessed correlations between vision impairment, economic status, and employment.

Results: Among 918 participants, 73% were male, 41% were aged 51–60, and 45% were illiterate. Vision impairment led to financial instability in 75% of cases. Before vision loss, 38% earned ₹5000 to ₹10,000/month, while 18% earned over ₹15,000. After vision deterioration, 19% had no income, and 37% stopped working entirely. Post-surgery, 79% were willing to resume work.

Conclusions: Cataract surgery significantly aids economic rehabilitation, with 79% of unemployed patients willing to return to work. Integrating vocational rehabilitation with free surgery programs is crucial for sustainable socio-economic impact, urging policymakers to adopt holistic cataract management strategies.

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