Vision Advocates Rally to Defend National Eye Institute from Funding Cuts and Consolidation Threats
Vision science and eye care organizations are mobilizing efforts to combat proposals circulating in Washington to slash federal vision funding and consolidate the National Eye Institute (NEI) into a broader institute on brain and dental research.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO), American Academy of Optometry (AAOptom), Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO), and National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (NAEVR) and Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (AEVR) are working together to oppose any proposal to consolidate the NEI into a broader Institute on Neuroscience and Brain Research.
These organizations warn that folding NEI into a broader institute would dilute its mission, compromise research continuity, and endanger progress in treating blinding diseases. The coalition recently unveiled #SeeWhatMatters, a nationwide educational and advocacy initiative aimed at spotlighting the NEI’s indispensable role. The campaign offers a platform for patients, clinicians, scientists, industry partners, and advocates to unite around a singular message: vision research is vital, and the NEI must remain independent.
Through social media, congressional outreach, and a digital action hub at SeeWhatMatters.org, the campaign is designed to empowers stakeholders to share personal stories, access advocacy tools, and make their voices heard in Congress.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology outlined several of the NEI's discoveries that have improved millions of lives and saved billions in healthcare costs, inlcuding:
- Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT): NEI funding supported the creation of this noninvasive imaging tool that has transformed diagnosis and treatment of blinding eye diseases like macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.
Anti-VEGF Therapies: NEI research led to the development of anti-VEGF drugs that halt vision loss in over 90% of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) patients and improve vision in about one-third.
Gene Therapy Breakthroughs: NEI-supported scientists pioneered the first-ever gene therapy to restore partial sight in people with Leber’s congenital amaurosis, a childhood blinding disease. Work is ongoing for other inherited retinal diseases like retinitis pigmentosa.
AI-Powered Diagnosis: With NEI backing since 2004, Dr. Michael Abramoff developed the first FDA-cleared autonomous AI system—LumineticsCore™—that can diagnose diabetic retinopathy in primary care settings, helping prevent vision loss for thousands annually.
“Congress created the NEI in 1968 because the nation was falling behind in vision research,” Stephen D. McLeod, MD, CEO of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, stated in an academy news release. “The NEI has upheld its end of the bargain for the American people. For the sake of the sight of millions, we expect Congress to continue upholding its end.”
The coalition urges all stakeholders to stand with them in protecting the NEI. Individuals can learn more, access advocacy resources, and amplify their voices by visiting SeeWhatMatters.org.