Every June we celebrate men’s health month. This year, we’re
honoring the occasion by discussing what we know best: eye health.
Oftentimes the health of our eyes is overlooked. Why? We’ve
heard it all: “I’m too busy for an eye exam” or “nothing feels wrong” or “I’ve got more important health issues to worry
about”… The fact is – eye health is an important part of your overall health.
Your Eyes…
The eye is a small but complex part of human anatomy. Every
eye is made up of many different parts, all of which work together to help us
see. When one component begins to fail, so can your vision.
…and Why They Matter
The most obvious need for healthy eyes is simple: to see. However,
understanding and caring for our eyes goes beyond sight.
Problems with vision
may be related to problems in your overall health. For example, diabetics
are at an increased risk for developing eye problems. More than 100 million
American adults live with diabetes or prediabetes. Prediabetes also appears to
be more prevalent in men (36.6 percent) than women (29.3 percent).[1]
Diabetic retinopathy is the most common eye disease among
diabetics. It affects nearly 7.7 million Americans age 40 and older[2] and
is the leading cause of blindness in the United States.[3] Diabetic
retinopathy can be identified by an eye health professional during a
comprehensive dilated eye exam.
By keeping up with recommended comprehensive
eye exams and caring for your eyes, you are not only investing in the
maintenance of your sight, but the overall health of your body.
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2017/p0718-diabetes-report.html