Optometrist Warns 4 Age-Related Eye Diseases Can Threaten Vision as 2.5 Million Canadians Face Macular Degeneration
Updated
Updated · The Conversation · Jun 16
Optometrist Warns 4 Age-Related Eye Diseases Can Threaten Vision as 2.5 Million Canadians Face Macular Degeneration
3 articles · Updated · The Conversation · Jun 16
Summary
Four conditions—diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration—can erode vision with age, but an optometrist says much of the damage can be prevented or delayed through regular exams and early treatment.
18% of Canadians aged 60–79 have diabetes, and diabetic retinopathy can already be present at diagnosis; warning signs include blurred vision, black spots, flashes and color changes, while untreated disease can progress to hemorrhage and blindness.
5% to 7% of Canadians over 60 are affected by open-angle glaucoma, which often advances silently as peripheral vision narrows; cataracts, by contrast, cloud the lens over time and are best managed with timely surgery after lifelong UV protection.
More than 2.5 million Canadians have age-related macular degeneration, with risk tied to age, family history, smoking, diet and UV exposure; healthy habits, control of blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol, and specialist care can help preserve sight.