The importance of women’s eye health

April 2023

Two out of every 3 people living with blindness or vision problems are women, according to the National Eye Institute. Data from The Future of Vision: Forecasting the Prevalence and Costs of Vision Problems study shows that women are at higher risk for certain eye diseases and conditions, but many women may not be aware of risk factors or steps they can take to prevent vision loss. As a vision provider, it is important to educate patients on women’s eye health and ways to protect their vision. Here’s how you can help:

• Encourage regular eye exams – This is crucial in detecting eye conditions early and preventing complications
• Discuss risk factors – Ensure women are aware of risk factors that contribute to various eye conditions. Some of these risk factors include age, family history, health issues, medications and smoking.
• Educate on ways to protect their vision – Certain lifestyle modifications can help protect vision and prevent eye conditions. Those changes include maintaining healthy eating habits, exercising, not smoking, wearing sunglasses, and practicing good hygiene when using eye makeup.
• Talk about eye safety – Preventing eye injuries can help reduce the risk of vision loss and promote long-term health. Sunglasses and safety eyewear shield eyes from harmful UV rays and harsh conditions.
• Discuss pregnancy-related eye health – Fluctuating hormone levels during pregnancy can cause changes that can affect eye health. Women may notice changes in their ability to see clearly. 
• Educate on understanding the signs of eye disease – Help patients recognize symptoms including decreased vision, eye pain, drainage/redness of the eye, floaters and flashes, seeing halos around lights, and double vision¹

Many women do not know that they are at greater risk for major vision problems, including age-related macular degeneration, autoimmune diseases, cataract, dry eye, glaucoma, low vision, thyroid eye disease, and refractive error. By educating patients on women’s eye health and risk factors, you can help prevent vision loss and ensure they receive the appropriate care and treatment for any eye conditions that may arise.

¹ Women’s Eye Health