Vision Statistics in North Carolina

North Carolina’s vision health landscape is shaped by diverse factors ranging from pediatric screening advancements to adult eye disease prevalence. This article focuses on presenting data-driven insights, highlighting critical statistics about vision care, accessibility, and disparities across the state. By examining recent trends and demographic nuances, we aim to offer an in-depth perspective on key vision health outcomes in North Carolina.

Numerous studies and surveys underscore the prevalence of vision-related conditions among children and adults statewide. These findings shed light on the importance of targeted screenings, proper workforce distribution, and awareness of demographic disparities. Below, we outline foundational statistics before diving into specific categories of data.

Key Early Statistics

• 5.39% statewide vision loss rate, compared to 3.3% in West Virginia and 3.0% in Florida.
• 41.4% of diabetes patients in North Carolina face eye complications.
• 33,000 children receive preschool vision screenings annually.
• 12 counties lack any practicing optometrist.

These figures highlight both the breadth and complexity of vision challenges in North Carolina. The sections that follow present more detailed statistics around pediatric screening, adult vision health patterns, geographic disparities, and provider access.

Pediatric Screening Trends

Data on vision health among children reveals important shifts in screening rates and common diagnoses.

• The state’s preschool vision screening program, active since 2003, now serves over 33,000 children per year.
• A 2020 kindergarten vision screening mandate led to an 18% reduction in undiagnosed amblyopia.
• 11% of screened preschoolers still need referrals for follow-up treatment.
• 40% decrease in late-stage retinopathy of prematurity diagnoses since 2010.
• Strabismus prevalence in school-aged children is 2.1%, aligning with national averages.
• An observed 23% rise in adolescent corrective lens use since 2015, linked to increased screen time.

Collectively, these findings emphasize a growing focus on early detection and intervention. The table below shows select pediatric screening outcomes from recent years.

Strong statewide initiatives have improved pediatric vision screening, yet continued referrals and follow-up care remain crucial for early intervention efforts.

Adult Vision Health Patterns

Among adults, several prevalent eye conditions and risk factors highlight the importance of regular screenings and early interventions.

• Only 40 counties meet the recommended ratio of 1 optometrist per 10,000 residents.
• 12 rural counties have no practicing optometrist at all.
• Childhood myopia progression is 3.8 times higher in agricultural counties compared to urban centers.
• Diabetes-driven blindness is 32% higher in North Carolina than in neighboring Virginia.
• Over 56.7% of low-income households are uninsured for eye care.

Geographic location plays a critical role in healthcare equity, with rural populations experiencing elevated barriers. Below is a summary of optometrist distribution and related factors.

Differing access to eye care providers remains one of the most influential factors behind rural–urban gaps in vision health outcomes.

Access to Care and Workforce Data

Insurance coverage, safety-net programs, and the distribution of providers collectively affect how North Carolinians receive eye care.

• 41.9% of adults in the state do not have eye care insurance.
• 24.5% of rural residents postpone exams due to out-of-pocket costs.
• 53% of uninsured diabetics skip annual retinal screenings.
• The Vision Resource Program provided $660,000 in free care during 2022–2023.
• Statewide, there are 1,127 active optometrists, marking the third-highest density in the Southeast.
• 78% of optometrists practice within 25 miles of academic medical centers, creating unequal geographic coverage.

These numbers show how financial barriers and workforce concentration can limit vision care for many communities. Below is a table illustrating core cost and coverage figures.

The convergence of rising chronic conditions, cost hurdles, and localized provider shortages continues to challenge North Carolina’s vision health efforts.

Key Statistics Summary

• Vision loss rates stand at 5.39% statewide.
• Glaucoma prevalence soared by 22% since 2015.
• 12 North Carolina counties lack any optometrist.
• Childhood myopia progression is 3.8x higher in rural agricultural areas than urban centers.
• 41.9% of adults remain uninsured for vision care.

From pediatric screenings to chronic eye conditions in adults, the statistical data reveal how economic barriers, provider shortages, and geographic disparities shape vision health outcomes in North Carolina. As the state continues addressing these challenges, the presented metrics highlight the magnitude of vision-related issues and the urgency of focused, data-driven responses.

• Diabetic retinopathy affects an estimated 127,000 North Carolinians, with 58% of cases undiagnosed until significant vision loss occurs.
• 41.4% of diabetes patients in North Carolina experience some form of diabetes-related eye complications.
• Glaucoma prevalence has risen by 22% since 2015.
• Black residents face a 37.4% rate of glaucoma, compared to 30.5% among white residents.
• Vision-related disability rates are at 22% among working-age adults.

These statistics demonstrate how chronic conditions such as diabetes disproportionately drive adult vision impairment. The table below offers an overview of certain adult eye disease metrics.

Such conditions underscore the importance of early detection strategies and statewide surveillance programs aimed at reducing preventable blindness.

Geographic Disparities

Where someone lives in North Carolina significantly affects their risk for vision loss and their access to care.

• Only 40 counties meet the recommended ratio of 1 optometrist per 10,000 residents.
• 12 rural counties have no practicing optometrist at all.
• Childhood myopia progression is 3.8 times higher in agricultural counties compared to urban centers.
• Diabetes-driven blindness is 32% higher in North Carolina than in neighboring Virginia.
• Over 56.7% of low-income households are uninsured for eye care.

Geographic location plays a critical role in healthcare equity, with rural populations experiencing elevated barriers. Below is a summary of optometrist distribution and related factors.

Differing access to eye care providers remains one of the most influential factors behind rural–urban gaps in vision health outcomes.

Access to Care and Workforce Data

Insurance coverage, safety-net programs, and the distribution of providers collectively affect how North Carolinians receive eye care.

• 41.9% of adults in the state do not have eye care insurance.
• 24.5% of rural residents postpone exams due to out-of-pocket costs.
• 53% of uninsured diabetics skip annual retinal screenings.
• The Vision Resource Program provided $660,000 in free care during 2022–2023.
• Statewide, there are 1,127 active optometrists, marking the third-highest density in the Southeast.
• 78% of optometrists practice within 25 miles of academic medical centers, creating unequal geographic coverage.

These numbers show how financial barriers and workforce concentration can limit vision care for many communities. Below is a table illustrating core cost and coverage figures.

The convergence of rising chronic conditions, cost hurdles, and localized provider shortages continues to challenge North Carolina’s vision health efforts.

Key Statistics Summary

• Vision loss rates stand at 5.39% statewide.
• Glaucoma prevalence soared by 22% since 2015.
• 12 North Carolina counties lack any optometrist.
• Childhood myopia progression is 3.8x higher in rural agricultural areas than urban centers.
• 41.9% of adults remain uninsured for vision care.

From pediatric screenings to chronic eye conditions in adults, the statistical data reveal how economic barriers, provider shortages, and geographic disparities shape vision health outcomes in North Carolina. As the state continues addressing these challenges, the presented metrics highlight the magnitude of vision-related issues and the urgency of focused, data-driven responses.