NEW DELHI: Even as India is home to one of the highest populations of the visually impaired, eye health is the least priority for the population here, a global survey said Wednesday.

"Eye health is the least priority for Indians while medical screenings of other types remain far more important. Compared to 10 other markets, Indians are the most likely to have never had an eye examination," the survey by Bausch + Lomb said.

Spanning across 26 countries, the survey by Bausch + Lomb polled around 11,000 consumers in Brazil, China, France, Germany, India and Italy, among others.

"One in 10 Indians have never had a comprehensive eye examination. Around 70 percent Indians do not get their eyes checked more often because they feel that they do not have any symptoms," the survey said.

In another startling finding, the study reported around 97 percent of doctors surveyed globally believed consumers do not have sufficient eye health knowledge.

The public poll sheds light on the state of consumer awareness, attitudes and behaviours related to eye health adding over 80 percent of visual impairment is preventable if detected.

"Most cases can be cured if detected on time – however, the study reveals that Indians don't take their eye health seriously. Around 58 percent Indians believe that they do not need an eye test unless they have a problem," said Harish Natarajan, Managing Director, Bausch + Lomb, India.

Interestingly, women came out top in the battle of the sexes by taking far better care of their eyes, such as eating a healthy diet and wearing sunglasses, the study reported.