A coalition of leading eyecare and research organizations has launched a nationwide campaign to protect the National Eye Institute (NEI) from proposed federal restructuring and funding cuts.
The initiative comes in response to mounting concerns over potential efforts to consolidate the NEI, an institute with a 57-year history of working to advance vision science, into a broader agency focused on brain and dental research. Such a move, advocates say, could significantly undermine progress in eye health and vision-related discoveries.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO), the American Academy of Optometry (AAOptom), the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO), and the National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (NAEVR)/Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (AEVR) are among the organizations opposing the proposed changes. Together, they have launched #SeeWhatMatters, a campaign aimed at raising public and policymaker awareness of the NEI’s role and the importance of sustained, dedicated vision research.
The campaign highlights key NEI-funded advancements, including the development of optical coherence tomography—a noninvasive imaging technology widely used to detect and manage blinding eye diseases—and breakthrough therapies for age-related macular degeneration and inherited retinal conditions such as Leber's congenital amaurosis. NEI also supported the creation of the first FDA-cleared autonomous artificial intelligence system for diabetic eye disease detection, a tool now used in primary care settings, the campaign shares.
Supporters argue that continued investment in NEI research is crucial as the US population ages, with vision loss projected to cost the US economy nearly $200 billion in 2025 through direct medical costs and lost productivity, according to a press release.
“The National Eye Institute plays an irreplaceable role in advancing the science that drives better patient outcomes, informs clinical practice, and fuels innovation in vision care,” says Trish Shomion, CEO of the American Academy of Optometry. “Defending and strengthening the NEI is not only about protecting research—it’s about safeguarding the vision health and independence of millions of Americans. Our community stands united to ensure that this vital organization continues to lead progress in preventing blindness and improving quality of life for people across the country.”
The #SeeWhatMatters campaign invites clinicians, researchers, patients, and the broader public to participate by sharing stories and resources that underscore the impact of federally funded vision science. Click here to learn more.