Prevention and Risk Factors
Take care of your eyes—for clear vision and a better life
Our eyes may be the windows to the soul, but they are certainly our gateway to the world.
Good vision without unpleasant symptoms means freedom and comfort.
That is why caring for eye health is essential. Today, we have the information we need to understand eye conditions, recognize their symptoms, and explore treatment options.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 21 million Americans—or 6.3% of the population—experience some form of vision impairment.
Extrapolated to Romania’s population, this means that more than 1.2 million Romanians may have ophthalmic conditions, some of them undiagnosed.
Why is prevention important?
Many eye diseases develop slowly, without obvious symptoms. People often do not realize they have an eye problem until it is discovered by chance during a routine examination.
These examinations can identify early changes in the retina, optic nerve, intraocular pressure, or other subtle signs that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Who is at risk?
The risk of developing an eye condition increases with age, but age is not the only factor.
Some of the most important risk factors include:
- A family history of eye disease (e.g., glaucoma);
- Systemic conditions, such as diabetes, which can lead to diabetic retinopathy;
- Prolonged screen exposure, smoking, an unbalanced diet, and a lack of regular checkups.
Prevention can make a difference
Experts estimate that more than 50% of cases of blindness or severe vision loss could be prevented through:
- Early diagnosis;
- Appropriate treatment;
- Regular eye exams, even when no symptoms are present.
