How Tej Kohli’s Philanthropy is Changing the Future of Eye Care
Introduction
Blindness due to cataracts is a preventable condition that affects millions, yet many individuals in low-income regions lack access to the necessary treatment. Tej Kohli, a globally recognized philanthropist and entrepreneur, has dedicated his resources to combating this challenge. His foundation has already restored sight to over 48,000 individuals and aims to eradicate cataract blindness for one million people by 2030.
The Mission of Philanthropist Tej Kohli highlights his groundbreaking initiatives in making eye care accessible, affordable, and innovative.
The Global Impact of Cataract Blindness
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 100 million people suffer from treatable cataract blindness worldwide. The problem is especially severe in developing countries, where access to medical interventions is scarce. The socioeconomic impact of untreated blindness is devastating, limiting employment opportunities and pushing families deeper into poverty.
How Tej Kohli is Revolutionizing Eye Care
Tej Kohli’s mission to eliminate preventable blindness focuses on three core areas:
1. Scaling High-Impact Cataract Surgeries
Through the Tej Kohli & Ruit Foundation, his team organizes microsurgical outreach camps in remote regions, providing free cataract surgeries to thousands in need. By leveraging cost-effective surgical techniques, the foundation reduces treatment costs from $3,000 to just $70 per patient.
2. Innovative Lens Manufacturing for Low-Cost Treatment
One of the most significant barriers to cataract treatment is the cost of intraocular lenses (IOLs). Tej Kohli’s foundation supports the manufacturing of IOLs, lowering costs from $500 to just $5 per lens. This enables more patients to receive treatment while sustaining a scalable healthcare model.
3. Building Sustainable Eye Care Infrastructure
Beyond immediate interventions, Tej Kohli is investing in long-term solutions, such as:
Training local surgeons in advanced cataract surgery techniques.
Partnering with regional hospitals to expand outreach programs.
Funding eye care research and technology advancements for better treatment options.
The Economic and Social Impact of Tej Kohli’s Philanthropy
1. Restoring Vision to Rebuild Livelihoods
A study in The Lancet suggests that cataract surgery can increase a person’s economic productivity by up to 1500% of the surgical cost within a year. By restoring sight, Tej Kohli is not just helping individuals—he is uplifting entire communities.
2. Supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Tej Kohli’s initiative aligns with global healthcare goals, specifically the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, which aims for universal healthcare access and improved well-being.
Future of Eye Care: What’s Next for Tej Kohli?
Expanding into More Countries – His foundation is increasing outreach efforts in Nepal, Bhutan, Ghana, and India.
Advancing AI-Driven Eye Diagnostics – Investing in AI technology for early detection and treatment.
Boosting Global Awareness – Partnering with governments and NGOs to make eye care a universal right.
Conclusion
Tej Kohli’s philanthropy is not just about treating cataract blindness—it’s about creating a lasting impact in global healthcare. By focusing on affordable, scalable, and sustainable solutions, his mission is setting new standards for how philanthropy can revolutionize eye care worldwide.