April is Women’s Eye Health Month, a time to highlight the unique risks women face when it comes to eye disease and vision loss. Studies show that women account for more than half of all glaucoma and macular degeneration cases, and they are also more likely to develop cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and dry eye syndrome. These conditions can threaten quality of life and independence if left untreated.
One of the main reasons for this increased risk is longevity—women simply live longer than men, giving eye diseases more time to develop. Add to that greater exposure to digital screens, UV light, and hormonal factors, and women have an even higher chance of experiencing eye problems. The good news is that many of these risks can be reduced through healthy habits, proactive care, and regular eye exams.
7 Tips for Protecting Women’s Eye Health
1. Shield your eyes from UV rays: UV exposure is a leading contributor to cataracts and macular degeneration. Wear sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays year-round—even on cloudy days or around water and snow.
2. Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Exercise regularly and eat a diet rich in colorful fruits, leafy greens, omega-3s, and lean proteins. Avoid smoking, reduce sugar and processed foods, and limit alcohol to lower your risk of age-related eye disease.
3. Manage chronic health conditions: Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are all linked to eye disease. Keeping these conditions under control protects both your overall health and your vision.
4. Keep makeup and skincare safe: Old or expired eye makeup can harbor bacteria that cause irritation or infection. Replace mascara and liquid products regularly, and wash brushes often to protect sensitive eye tissue.
5. Remove makeup daily: Sleeping with makeup on can block oil glands in the eyelids, causing dry eye, irritation, or infections. Make it a nightly habit to thoroughly clean your eyes and lashes.
6. Avoid non-prescription contact lenses: Decorative or colored lenses sold without a prescription can cause scratches, infections, or even permanent damage. Always be fitted by a licensed eye doctor for safe contact lens wear.
7. Schedule routine eye exams: Many serious eye conditions develop silently in their early stages. Comprehensive exams allow your doctor to catch issues early, when treatment is most effective, and help you protect long-term vision.
Protecting Women’s Vision for the Future
Women face unique challenges when it comes to vision health, but awareness and preventive care make all the difference. Small changes like wearing sunglasses, eating well, and managing chronic conditions can go a long way in preserving eyesight. Combining these steps with regular eye exams ensures that problems are detected before they cause permanent damage.
At Pacific Eye Care, we are committed to helping women in Huntington Beach, California enjoy clear, healthy vision at every stage of life. Our team provides comprehensive eye exams and personalized care to address your unique needs. Call us today to schedule an appointment and take an important step toward lifelong vision wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are women at higher risk for eye disease? Women live longer, and age is a major risk factor for diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Hormonal and lifestyle factors also play a role.
How often should women get an eye exam? Most adults should have an exam every one to two years, but women with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of eye disease may need more frequent visits.
Can lifestyle changes really lower the risk of vision loss? Yes. Diet, exercise, quitting smoking, and wearing UV-blocking sunglasses all help reduce the risk of eye disease.