Alcon, a division of Novartis, launched its Alcon Cares Project 100 to take steps in reducing cataract blindness globally. The company also plans to donate 100 reprocessed Infiniti units to eligible clinics in Asia, Central and South America and Africa over the next three years.
Alcon aims to reduce cataract blindness by providing equipment to perform phaco surgeries. The foundation Alcon Cares will oversee equipment and product donations to countries in need.
“Alcon Cares Project 100 aligns with our global efforts to combat cataract blindness and our mission to enhance sight and improve lives,” said David Endicott, chairman of Alcon Cares and chief operating officer of Alcon. “Cataracts are one of the leading causes of blindness and the World Health Organization recognizes cataract surgery as one of the most cost-effective treatments offered in developing countries. With 100 Infiniti units being placed in underserved markets, thousands of patients will receive the gift of sight. Additionally, hundreds of doctors who will be trained in phaco surgery in those clinics will be able to go on to provide quality care to thousands more.”
The goal of the project is to perform 200,000 phaco surgeries and train at least 400 doctors by the end of 2020.
Phaco surgeries use an ultrasound probe to fragment the lens and remove the cataract. It has a rapid recovery time that offers cost-saving benefits while letting patients return to full productivity at a faster rate than normal cataract surgery.
The Alcon Cares Project 100 plans to begin in Asia this year and will then expand to Central and South America in 2019 and Africa in 2020. The company is working with partners to pick clinics and hospitals that meet the criteria to receive equipment.
“Eliminating blindness is one of the most cost-effective ways to fight poverty, as every dollar invested into prevention results in at least a four-dollar economic return,” said Melissa Thompson, president of Alcon Cares and director of corporate social responsibility at Alcon. “With the goal of reducing cataract blindness, our program is expected to have a significant social and economic impact in communities, as improved sight empowers individuals to be more productive and reduces assistance needed from their caretakers and family members.”
This is great! Also a true reflection of the values and of Alcon Cares. Thank you for helping advance cures, techniques and therapies to reduce blindness and enhance lives.