Experts characterize the rise in cases and differences based on socioeconomic status, education and ethnicity as evidence of failure of policymakers to expand access to care.
Minority status and lower income correlated with higher rates of severe loss. Researchers advocate for public health initiatives and outreach programs aimed at high-risk groups.
Cases of acuity loss or blindness correlated with a relative dearth of eyecare providers and were especially prevalent in populations with a higher rate of poverty.