Ophthalmologist warns about main risk factors for blindness, according to 2023 study

low vision

The survey revealed that people from older and poorer age groups are more susceptible to visual problems

Manaus (AM) – A study that points to aging and socioeconomic status as the main risk factors for blindness and low vision was released by the Brazilian Council of Ophthalmology last week. The survey revealed that people of more advanced age groups and with lower purchasing power are more susceptible to these visual problems in Brazil.

Swammy Mitozo, ophthalmologist and ophthalmologist, points out that according to the study, the main causes of blindness or low vision include cataracts, uncorrected refractive errors, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration.

The document, entitled “The Conditions of Ocular Health in Brazil 2023”, makes a radiograph of the segment in the country, based on global estimates of the prevalence of ophthalmological diseases, added to demographic and socioeconomic data of Brazil.

For Swammy, less access to health can harm people, including cases of blindness that could be avoided.

“There are several obstacles faced by a large part of the population, such as the lack of money that prevents access to private medical services and makes people depend on public health, which often takes a long time to provide care”,

he said.

According to the study, in relation to the prevalence of blindness and low vision in the older age group, people face a higher incidence of pathologies related to aging, such as cataracts, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration. These conditions can lead in extreme cases to blindness.

Therefore, the ophthalmologist emphasizes the importance of maintaining regular medical follow-up and being aware of the health of the eyes.

“Prevention is key to avoiding many diseases and ensuring that we can continue to appreciate the wonders of the world through sight,”

comments Swammy.

*With advisory information

Read more:

Obesity among 18- to 24-year-olds rose 90% in one year

Urinary tract infections can lead to amputations and death.

LGBTQIA+ pride is a path to mental health and collective well-being