Asia Pacific bears nearly two-thirds of the global burden of moderate-to-severe vision impairment. Although 90 percent of vision impairment is preventable or treatable, a new survey reveals a significant gap between public concern and proactive eye care.

The APAC Vision Health Survey, commissioned by Roche, found that while 91 percent of adults aged 40 and above are concerned about their vision health, only 28 percent undergo annual or more frequent eye exams. A third of respondents delay seeking care until symptoms appear, and 12 percent have never visited an eye care professional.

This lack of preventive action comes at a time when aging populations and the rising prevalence of diabetes are contributing to increased risk of vision impairment across the region. According to the Lancet Global Health Commission, vision impairment accounts for approximately US$411 billion in productivity losses annually, underscoring the socioeconomic consequences of delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Professor Andrew Chang, Vitreoretinal Surgeon at Sydney Eye Hospital and Secretary-General of the Asia Pacific Vitreo-retina Society, notes, “The survey results reflect what we see in clinical practice. There is both an urgent need and an opportunity for the healthcare community to promote early screening, integrate eye care into chronic disease management, and leverage technology to expand access.”

Five key findings from the survey illustrate the extent of the challenge:

The personal impact of vision impairment is far-reaching. Respondents cited fears of losing their ability to perform daily tasks like cooking or driving, maintaining employment, and preserving independence. Mental health concerns and the emotional and financial toll on caregivers were also highlighted.

Despite high levels of concern, preventive action remains low. Although most respondents worry about vision loss, many delay care until symptoms appear or avoid it altogether. Regular eye exams remain underutilized, missing a crucial opportunity for early intervention.

Diabetes is a significant risk factor, yet screenings are inconsistent. Two-thirds of respondents with diabetes reported experiencing vision-related symptoms, but a third of them do not receive annual eye exams. Barriers include cost, time constraints, and limited awareness of the importance of screenings.

Many accept vision loss as a natural part of aging. A majority of respondents believe age-related vision impairment is inevitable, which may discourage regular checkups. Notably, less than 60 percent of those over 60 reported attending regular eye exams, despite being at greater risk.

Awareness of retinal diseases is low. The survey revealed that most participants were unfamiliar with conditions like diabetic macular edema, age-related macular degeneration, and retinal vein occlusion—diseases that can cause serious vision loss if left untreated.

The survey covered 4,354 adults aged 40 and above across Australia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. It provides valuable insight into perceptions of vision health, its link to aging and diabetes, and knowledge gaps around retinal disease.

Ahmed Elhusseiny, Area Head, Roche Pharmaceuticals Asia Pacific, emphasized the urgency of action. “This survey doesn’t just highlight challenges—it points to where change is needed. Bridging the gap between awareness and preventive care is essential. At Roche, we are committed to supporting sustainable solutions to address vision impairment and improve outcomes for individuals and communities across Asia Pacific.”

Read more about the APAC Vision Health Survey here: https://go.roche.com/apacvisionhealthsurvey