Did you know that women are at a higher risk of experiencing vision loss and blindness? If not, please know that you are not alone. Less than 10 percent of women realize that they are at a higher risk of suffering permanent vision loss than men, according to a survey conducted by Prevent Blindness.

You may find it startling to learn that one in four women surveyed has not had an eye exam in the last two years. The finding is concerning, especially when you consider that two-thirds of all blindness and visual impairment cases involve women.

“We need to engage women in caring for their eye health,” says Mary Elizabeth Hartnett, MD, of the John A. Moran Eye Center. “Women may be less likely to access health care for themselves, for example, if they forego regular exams to manage family concerns or take care of others instead of themselves. My focus is retinal disease.  It is important that everyone, including women, be aware of symptoms like floaters, light flashes, or distorted vision—all possible signs of more serious retinal conditions. That’s important because if we can intervene at an early stage, we can often prevent vision loss.”

The San Diego Center for the Blind offers many services that can significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals living with vision loss. Please contact us today to learn more.

“Women’s Eye Health: Why It’s Different”