Are Women Predisposed to Eye Disease

Studies show that women are more likely to suffer from eye-related problems than men. Women need to be more vigilant with their eye care. Two thirds of blindness and visual impairment worldwide occur in women. That is 66% of blind patients are women.

Top eye related risks for women:

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) 65% of cases
• Cataracts
•  Glaucoma (65%)
•  Dry eye occurs at double the rate in post-menopausal women

In general women are more susceptible to auto immune diseases that affect vision, than men.

Diseases like:

• Lupus
• Sjogren’s Syndrome
• Hyper thyroiditis
• Pregnancy can cause changes in vision due to hormonal changes.

Why are women at higher risk? 

•  Women live longer-age plays a role in vision problems.
• Hormones
• Diabetes
•  Medications
• Lifestyle choices-Stop smoking, eat healthier, protect your eyes from UV rays. 

It has been estimated that 75% of blindness and vision loss can be prevented or is treatable.

Prevention:

1. Have a comprehensive eye exam including dial action and a health scan of the eye.
2. Be aware of family history.
3. Switch to a healthy lifestyle.
4. Protect your eye from UV rays with sunglasses and other dangers such as flying debris by wearing Googles.

 

#eyegotcha

#PittsburghEyeCare

#PittsburghOptometrist

 

Sources:

www.aao.org

www.visionsource.com

www.yoursightmatters.com

 

Image: www.focusclinics.com