June is Cataract Awareness Month, a perfect time to spotlight the vision care disparities impacting communities of color across the US. While cataracts are treatable, Black, Hispanic, and low-income patients often face longer wait times for surgery, fewer premium treatment options, and greater barriers to follow-up care. These delays can lead to serious vision loss, impacting quality of life and deepening health inequities.
In this week’s volume, we explore the impact of these disparities and how you can advocate for more equitable cataract care.
Make it a great week 🙏🏾
Featured Resources 🙏🏾
Mindful Moment 😌
Pause, follow the guide below, and observe 3-5 DEEP breaths. As you breathe in through your nose, notice any scents around you, allowing each aroma to ground you in the present moment.
Mindful Movement 🙆🏾♂️
This week's yoga practice can help reset your focus, release built-up tension, and boost your energy. Do this flow 2-3 times throughout the week and notice how you feel after each time.
Mindful Reflection ✍🏾
How does my body feel after different types of physical activity, and what activities can I commit to regularly to feel more energized and healthy?
Share your responses with us on Threads, and be sure to #balanceperiod
Affirmation 🗣️
Say this to yourself silently or out loud:
"I honor my body by engaging in movement that strengthens and energizes me, knowing that every step I take improves my well-being.
Upcoming Health/Wellness Events 🗓️
Pilates in the Park (Paradigm by Ajani x MVMT House)
Bring your friends and family to stretch, strengthen, and connect in a peaceful setting. Tickets include both the Pilates class and game admission and must be purchased through this special ticket link below.
- Saturday, July 5th, from 5:40 - 6:20 PM EDT
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Victory Field [501 W Maryland Street, Indianapolis, IN 46225]
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Unplug at Spades Park
Take a break from scrolling, screens, and endless notifications to be with yourself and others this summer in Indy. No agenda. No pressure. No forced interaction. Just an opportunity to turn off in a world that’s always on.
- Sunday, July 6th, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM EDT
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Spades Park [1800 Nowland Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46201]
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Disparities in Cataract Care: What You Can Do to Advocate 👁️✊🏾
Cataracts are a common cause of vision loss and one of the most treatable eye conditions. But treatment for cataracts isn’t distributed evenly. Black, Hispanic, and low-income patients often wait longer for surgery, get less advanced lens options, and face higher barriers to care.
Why This Matters
- Longer delays before surgery: Black patients are 29% less likely to receive surgery within 120 days of referral compared to White patients.
- Less access to premium lens implants (IOLs): Patients of color are far less likely to receive premium intraocular lenses, which improve vision quality post-surgery.
- Socioeconomic barriers worsen vision loss: Those who are uninsured, unemployed, or without consistent medical care are less likely to get surgery and more likely to suffer vision problems.
- Missed follow-up care: Social factors like transportation or clinic location contribute to missed appointments, which can affect outcomes.
How Vision Disparities Impact Health
Cataract-related blindness affects quality of life, work, and daily functioning. Poor vision also increases risks for falls and can lead to depression and social isolation. When communities of color receive cataract care later or at lower quality, it adds to the broader health inequities many already face.
How You Can Advocate for Equity
Take action for yourself, your loved ones, or your community:
- Ask about surgical timing—If surgery is delayed, ask what to expect and when to follow up.
- Inquire about premium lens options—These can drastically improve vision quality and life.
- Look for local resources—Community clinics, mobile eye programs, and patient assistance services may help reduce cost or access barriers.
- Speak up if you face barriers—If insurance, transportation, or language gets in the way, raise your concerns and request support.
- Support family and friends navigating care—Offer help scheduling, arranging transport, or translating medical visits.
When we ensure fair access to cataract care, we help people see clearly, from their vision to their futures. Your advocacy helps close gaps and promote real vision wellness for all.
Sources: Racial Disparities in Cataract Surgery Timeline and Intraocular Lens Selection, Cataract Surgery: Racial Disparities in Timing and IOL Selection, Disparities In Cataract Care Are A Sorry Sight
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