Why the disparity? The National Eye Institute cites several factors. First and the simplest: Women live longer, increasing the chances of age-related macular degeneration and cataract. Women also are at greater risk for autoimmune disorders such as Sjogren’s Syndrome, lupus, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis, all of which can have an impact on vision.
Dry eye syndrome is much more prevalent in women due to hormonal changes, hormone replacement therapy, birth control pills, some antidepressants, ibuprofen and naproxen. (You’ll find some great information about dry eye in our CE course “Understanding Dry Eye, 2017 Update”.) Pregnancy can cause refractive changes, although they are usually temporary. However, pregnancy increases the risk for high blood pressure, diabetes and glaucoma, which can have more permanent effects on vision.
Eye cosmetics pose risks to vision, too. While products labeled “natural” and “preservative free” may sound healthier, they lack the preservatives that prevent bacterial growth. (By the way, how often do you get new mascara?) Eyeliner applied to the inner lid can clog the meibomian glands. Of course, contact lens wearers must take extra care when applying cosmetics and skin creams to avoid foreign matter becoming trapped under the lens.
Perhaps more worrisome than the statistical risks are the results of a 2014 Harris Poll study for Prevent Blindness America that found that only 9 percent of women realize that they are at a greater risk of permanent vision loss than men. The National Eye Institute notes that the usual steps for maintaining healthy vision—regular dilated eye exams, healthy lifestyle, knowing the family health history, protective eyewear and sunglasses—are particularly important for women. What’s more, the majority of women make the health care decisions for their families, so their own awareness of the need for vision health care will affect vision care for their families.
We need to ensure that our patients who are women are aware of their extra need for particular attention to vision health. When Mom brings her children to us for their exams, remind her that she needs vision care, too!
• Linda Conlin
[email protected]
2020mag.com/education
