Celebrating Women’s Vision on International Women’s Day

Women play a crucial role in families, workplaces, and society. However, many women often put others' needs before their own health, particularly in terms of eye care.

Are you aware that women face a greater risk of vision loss and eye diseases compared to men? Research indicates that conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, dry eye syndrome, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are more common among women. This International Women’s Day, let's emphasize the importance of women’s eye health and explore ways to safeguard your vision.

International Women's day is celebrated on 8th Mar annually. Image: pixabay.com

Why Are Women More Prone to Eye Diseases?

Various factors contribute to the heightened eye health risks for women:

👁️ Hormonal Changes

Fluctuations in hormones during pregnancy, menopause, and aging can result in dry eyes, blurred vision, and increased light sensitivity.

👁️ Longer Life Expectancy

Women tend to live longer than men, raising their likelihood of experiencing age-related eye diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration.

👁️ Higher Prevalence of Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid diseases (which are more common in women) can cause vision problems, including inflammation and optic nerve damage.

👁️ Greater Risk of Cataracts & Glaucoma

Research shows that two-thirds of all blindness and vision impairment cases occur in women. Cataracts, the leading cause of blindness globally, affect women more than men due to hormonal and genetic influences.

Eye Care Tips Every Woman Should Follow

To minimize the risk of vision problems and maintain healthy eyesight, consider these essential tips:

✅ 1. Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Early detection is crucial! Women should have an eye examination at least once a year, particularly after age 40.

✅ 2. Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays

Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection to guard against cataracts and macular degeneration. UV exposure accelerates eye aging!

✅ 3. Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods for Eye Health

Include omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, C, and E in your diet from:🥕 Carrots🥬 Leafy greens🐟 Fatty fish (salmon, tuna)🍊Citrus fruits

✅ 4. Reduce Screen Time & Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

Extended use of mobile devices or computers strains the eyes. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds to alleviate eye fatigue.

✅ 5. Remove Eye Makeup Before Sleeping

Leaving mascara or eyeliner on overnight can cause eye infections and blocked tear ducts. Always remove makeup with a gentle cleanser.

✅ 6. Quit Smoking for Better Vision

Smoking elevates the risk of cataracts, optic nerve damage, and macular degeneration. Safeguard your eyes by quitting smoking today!

Take Charge of Your Eye Health Today!

This Women’s Day, celebrate yourself by focusing on your health and vision. Whether you're managing family, career, or both—clear and healthy eyesight empowers you to achieve more.

Need an eye check-up? Visit Dr. Kavitha Palaniappan for expert eye care.