Prime Minister Gaston Browne says untreated vision problems are affecting productivity in Antigua and Barbuda as the government expands eye health services and support programmes across the country.

Speaking on Pointe FM on Saturday, Browne said many residents are living with impaired vision that can be corrected through proper treatment and access to prescription eyewear.

“Many individuals are not as productive as they ought to be because of impaired vision,” Browne said.

The Prime Minister said improving eye health has become part of a wider government strategy to improve quality of life and workforce participation.

“If you’re able to provide them with the necessary interventions, early interventions, they’ll be able to be more productive citizens,” Browne said.

Browne said Antigua and Barbuda has joined a broader international eye health initiative and is positioning itself as a regional advocate on the issue.

“We have been one of the champions for global eye health,” he said.

As part of the initiative, Browne disclosed that a visiting medical team is currently carrying out eye surgeries in Antigua and Barbuda and is expected to complete approximately 400 procedures.

“We have a team here that is doing eye surgeries,” Browne said.

The Prime Minister also confirmed that Antigua and Barbuda recently received 25,000 prescription glasses that are expected to be distributed free to residents with vision impairments.

“We also got a gift of 25,000 glasses,” Browne said.

He added that Antigua and Barbuda plans to host a side event focused on eye health during the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting scheduled for November.