5 Things to Know This Women’s Eye Health & Safety Month

April is Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month! You may not realize it, but women tend to face higher rates of eye conditions, vision loss, and other eye and vision concerns. To raise awareness, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about women’s eye health and safety in this blog.

1. There are many threats to women’s eyes and vision. Across the world, women make up the majority of people who face vision loss and blindness. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, women account for 65% of age-related macular degeneration cases, 61% of glaucoma patients, and 66% of the world’s blind population.

2. Many factors contribute to women’s vision problems. There are several reasons why women tend to face more eye- and vision-related concerns. Firstly, hormonal shifts and aging processes, like menopause or pregnancy, can impact the eyes. For instance, post-menopausal women have double the risk of developing dry eye. In addition, women have higher rates of conditions like autoimmune disorders, many of which directly impact vision. Finally, women tend to live longer on average than men. This means that women are more likely to deal with age-related issues, like cataracts, because of their lifespan.

3. Trendy women’s sunglasses are not always ideal. Sunglasses are crucial when it comes to protecting your eyes and vision. However, trendy women’s sunglasses are not always protective. Lately, tiny sunglasses have become popular. However, the smaller the lens, the less protection your sunglasses will offer. In addition, many of the fashion glasses that women buy have no UV protection. Remember: sunglasses’ primary purpose is to keep your eyes safe from UV rays—always check the tags on any pair before you purchase them.

4. Eye makeup can lead to infections. A staple for many women, eye makeup can easily harbor bacteria and lead to infections. To protect your eyes, throw out and replace eye makeup regularly—and avoid applying makeup too close to your eyes. Before bed, remember to thoroughly clean away any lingering makeup residue.

5. Preventative care is a must—for everyone. While women do have a higher risk of some eye problems and conditions, eye exams are necessary for everyone. Comprehensive, regular exams are the best way to spot problems early, correct refractive errors, treat diseases like glaucoma, and minimize vision loss caused by many eye conditions.

This Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month, put your vision and eyes first! If you have not booked an appointment recently, call our team today. Receiving regular eye care can help you enjoy a healthy, happy life!