Globally, women experience a burden of eye disease more than men, and thus, paying special attention to their eyes is critical. Women have a variety of obstacles in maintaining their vision and preventing visual deterioration. Because risk varies depending on social, genetic, environmental, or demographic factors, determining women’s eye health is challenging. In this context, it is critical to recognise that, while focusing on their family’s health, women frequently overlook their own, particularly eye-related disorders. As a result, it is critical to raise women’s awareness about the importance of eye health.
The significance of eye health for women
According to the World Health Organisation, two-thirds of blind individuals worldwide are women and girls. This discrepancy is caused by socioeconomic variables, cultural standards, and differential access to healthcare; it is not only biological. Certain eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, and dry eye syndrome, are statistically more common in women. Hormonal changes that occur during a woman’s life, from puberty to menopause, can also affect her vision. According to numerous studies, women are far more likely than males to suffer from cataract-related avoidable blindness. Although women account for about two-thirds of cataract-related blindness worldwide, men are more likely to have cataract surgery.
Women in India are financially disadvantaged because of their lower socioeconomic standing and the scarcity of job options. The male members of the household are largely responsible for taking the women for eye exams, particularly when they are pregnant or elderly. Men find it challenging to forsake their daily salary because the majority of them depend on it. Insecurities and the fear of harassment make people less inclined to visit centres and other far-off locations. As a result, the majority of women are less likely to seek out eye care services or put off getting treatment until their disease gets worse.
For various reasons, women also tend to overlook eye problems. One of these is the financial limitations that keep women from getting timely eye care. Traditional gender roles assign women main responsibilities for domestic chores and caregiving. These tasks can limit their capacity to prioritise their health and seek medical attention when necessary, including eye care. Women are frequently overburdened with caregiving duties in many countries, which leaves them with little time for their own medical needs. Furthermore, women may be discouraged from prioritising their eye health or seeking help for vision issues due to cultural beliefs and gender standards. Accessing eye care is more difficult for women in marginalised populations, such as those who reside in rural areas or conflict zones.
A 2021 study found that age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and cataracts are the three most prevalent eye disorders affecting women. Both societal and biological factors can cause women’s eye problems. Biological changes, including hormonal changes during menopause, menstruation, pregnancy, and lactation, play a major part. For example, following menopause, women are more susceptible to eye problems since oestrogen protects the eyes. Additionally, pregnancy can alter tissue flexibility, which might impact short-sighted women’s refractive errors. Furthermore, gestational diabetes may hasten the development of diabetic retinopathy. It is projected that the prevalence of eye disorders will have doubled by 2050 as a result of various chronic illnesses, diabetes, and longer life expectancies.
How can we approach this?
Education is essential to empower women to take control of their eye health. Women are more equipped to make health decisions when they know about common eye diseases, available treatments, and preventive actions. The public and private sectors must work together to increase efforts to promote eye health literacy. These efforts must also be customised to meet varied groups’ unique linguistic, social, and cultural demands.
Certain eye conditions are more likely to affect women than males, emphasising the need for specific care catered to their needs. Pregnancy-related changes in eyesight or heightened susceptibility to diseases like dry eye necessitate special attention to women’s eye health. Regular eye exams and early intervention can greatly improve women’s quality of life by treating possible issues before they worsen or endanger their health.
Additionally, eye health camps need to be set up in remote and rural locations. Every six months, women should be encouraged to have their eyes tested. Additionally, they must learn about the early warning signs of serious eye conditions such as cataracts and glaucoma. Major eye procedures for women should likewise be provided at a reduced cost. A multisectoral strategy comprising cooperation between healthcare professionals, governmental organisations, nonprofits, and community leaders is needed to address gender inequities in eye health.
Conclusion
We can enable women to protect their vision and reach their full potential by removing obstacles, advancing knowledge and understanding, and implementing gender-responsive strategies. Reducing gaps in vision care and promoting the general well-being of all women can be achieved by educating women about the risk factors and promoting proactive strategies for keeping excellent eye health.