Eye diseases are not uncommon. They can affect anyone, especially as you age. Many people don’t notice symptoms until their vision is already at risk. As to global statistics, nearly two out of every three people who are blind or visually impaired are women.
This gender disparity in eye health is a public health issue, and one that deserves more attention, especially during Healthy Vision Month in May, says Dr Pramila Das, General Ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon at Aditya Jyot Eye Hospital, Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital in Wadala, Mumbai.
Both biology and societal factors, explains Dr Das, contributes to this imbalance. “Women tend to live longer than men, and many age-related eye diseases, like cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration, appear later in life. But it’s not just about longevity. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and menopause can also trigger or worsen conditions like dry eye syndrome,” she says.
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Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus and Sjögren’s syndrome, which are far more common in women, can also lead to serious eye complications. “In addition, women often face more barriers to accessing eye care. Plus, many women prioritise their family’s health over their own, delaying routine checkups. This can result in late diagnosis, when vision loss is harder to treat,” adds Dr Das.
Awareness is key to prevention. Women are more likely to suffer from untreated refractive errors, such as nearsightedness and astigmatism, especially in areas with limited access to care. “In rural and underserved regions, women are disproportionately affected by preventable blindness simply because they aren’t treated early,” she shares.
However, most vision loss is preventable. “Early detection and simple lifestyle changes can go a long way in preserving eyesight. Nutrition, smoking cessation, and sun protection all play important roles in eye health. With just a little extra attention and care, women can take strong steps toward protecting their vision for the long term,” says Dr Das.
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Here are 5 simple steps, suggested by the expert, that will help you protect your eyes:
- Get regular eye check-up after 40: Many eye diseases, including glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, show no early symptoms. A complete eye exam can detect issues before vision loss begins, especially as women face greater risk post-menopause.
- Know your family history: Genetics plays a major role in conditions like AMD, glaucoma, and cataracts. Sharing this information with your doctor helps them create a personalized monitoring and prevention plan.
- Eat for your eyes: Nutrients like lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E help protect the retina and prevent cataracts. Include colourful fruits, green leafy vegetables, fish like salmon, and nuts in your diet.
- Say no to smoking: Smoking is linked to increased risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, and optic nerve damage. It also worsens dry eye symptoms, already more prevalent in postmenopausal women.
- Protect against UV rays: Long-term UV exposure can lead to cataracts and macular degeneration. Use sunglasses with 100 percent UVA and UVB protection, and wear a hat for additional shielding, even on cloudy days.
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