Diabetic retinopathy stands as a leading cause of blindness among working-age individuals. Without timely detection and treatment, this condition can lead to gradual vision loss or irreversible blindness.

The Ministry of Health reports that approximately 7 million Vietnamese are currently living with diabetes. According to Pham Kim Ngoc, Orbis Vietnam Country Director, an estimated over 2 million people suffer from blindness and vision impairment. "About 90% of cases are preventable, yet many barriers persist", Ngoc said.

Addressing this urgent health challenge, Orbis International, in collaboration with Roche Pharma Vietnam, has launched the "For Vietnamese Eyes" program. This initiative aims to tackle the growing number of severe diabetes-related eye problems. The program's core focus is to establish a comprehensive, sustainable, and patient-centric eye care model, featuring a closed-loop process from screening and detection to treatment.

The project targets reaching and providing eye care to around 27,000 diabetic patients across 7 major hospitals in Hanoi and TP HCM. Lennor Carrillo, General Director of Roche Pharma Vietnam, stated that from early 2026, the project will intensify its efforts to enhance professional capacity and integrate artificial intelligence (AI). Following its initial two years of implementation, this model holds the potential for nationwide replication.

Medical staff examine a patient's eyes with a non-fluorescent fundus camera. Photo: Roche

To achieve its objectives, the program integrates Orbis's Cybersight artificial intelligence (AI) for screening. This technology serves as a valuable tool, assisting doctors in early detection of retinal lesions, thereby enabling timely and accurate treatment decisions or referrals.

The project also focuses on enhancing the capabilities of medical personnel. It will provide real-world data from its implementation to support state management agencies in developing standardized technical guidelines for managing diabetic retinopathy.

Rebecca Cronin, Chief Executive Officer of the Orbis office in the United Kingdom, highlighted that when livelihoods depend on eye health, the risk of undiagnosed conditions like diabetic retinopathy can severely impact communities.

"The project offers many patients the opportunity to access essential eye care services that can change their lives", she said.

My Y