Preventing avoidable vision loss and addressing childhood myopia guide Santen’s work in Spain and worldwide. Founded in Osaka in 1890, the Japanese pharmaceutical company develops treatments and partnerships to advance eye care.
“Our Japanese heritage gives us something very valuable — a long-term perspective,” said Fernando Alvarez, general manager of Santen Spain. Its founding spirit of “Tenki ni sanyo suru” (exploring the secrets and mechanisms of nature in order to contribute to people’s health), reflects a commitment to applying nature and science to improve people’s health. Its specialized scientific expertise supports a clear purpose: helping people see better and live happier lives.
In treating glaucoma, Santen collaborates with the Spanish Glaucoma Society and healthcare organizations on GlauCCare, a hospital certification initiative aimed at raising standards. Alvarez emphasizes earlier diagnosis and stronger coordination throughout care.
Childhood myopia is another priority, with regular screening, healthy visual habits and appropriate treatment supporting earlier intervention. Time outdoors forms part of those healthy habits. Santen works with ophthalmologists, patient organizations and the eye care community to support children and families, including through collaboration on the children’s booklet Myopia Explorers. These partnerships aim to translate scientific evidence into practical support for patients.
“Looking ahead, our ambition is to keep advancing eye health by turning insight and innovation into meaningful solutions, so that more people can see and experience the world more fully.”
Fernando Alvarez, General Manager of Santen Spain
“If we want to improve outcomes, we need to understand the patient journey, not just the product journey,” Alvarez said. This approach also informs staff development and long-term relationships across Spain’s healthcare system.
Alvarez attributes Santen Spain’s performance to trusted customer relationships, ownership and teamwork. This people-centered culture is also reflected in Santen’s recognition under ISO 53800 for gender equality, its recognition as an age-friendly employer and, most recently, its 25th place ranking among the 100 Best Companies to Work For in Spain in 2026 by El Mundo’s Actualidad Economica.
Spain’s highly specialized ophthalmology community and established healthcare system offer opportunities to develop practices that can benefit Santen internationally. Developing talent with a global mindset supports that ambition.
“Looking ahead, our ambition is to keep advancing eye health by turning insight and innovation into meaningful solutions, so that more people can see and experience the world more fully,” Alvarez said.
