El Salvador

Blindness in El Salvador

El Salvador is the smallest country in Central America but has the highest population density. Before the 15th century, it was home to the indigenous Lenca and Olmec civilizations. The Olmecs left behind stunning architectural marvels in the country’s Western regions. The Salvadoran health care system is still recovering from the brutal civil war that took place from 1979-1992. As a result, the government has struggled to provide high-quality medical care throughout the country. While basic eye care is available in large cities like San Salvador, smaller towns and villages are often isolated, and residents cannot access care. Consequently, over 120,000 Salvadorans are blind, with the majority suffering from treatable cataracts.