Cathie Ramey
RedwoodAge.com

Thirty million Americans over 40 suffer from age-related eye disease, and the number is expected to double in the next 30 years.

Cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and glaucoma are the leading causes of vision loss for nearly a quarter of Americans born before 1969, according to "2008: Vision Problems in the US," a joint study by Prevent Blindness America and the National Eye Institute.

The study, which updates a 2002 report, estimates the cost of these adult vision problems at $51.4 billion. With 78 million boomers turning 65 over the next 20 years, the economic impacts may be as profound as the social effects.

"Our research shows that vision loss continues to threaten the quality of life for millions of Americans," said Daniel Garrett, vice president of Prevent Blindness America, a volunteer group. "Our challenge continues to be education, whether it be convincing the public to practice regular eye care or by convincing our government leaders that millions of precious healthcare dollars can be saved through prevention services."

Currently 2 million Americans have macular degeneration, a 25 percent increase since the data from the first report six years ago. Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in the United States and affects more people than cataract and glaucoma combined.

With the explosion of obesity in the US and its link to diabetes, there is an urgent need for overweight Americans to come to terms with their eating habits and begin implementing regular exercise. Diabetic retinopathy, which may lead to blindness, already affects more than 3.6 million people.

Eye disease, like high blood pressure, can be a silent visitor. Glaucoma, which is the result of damage to the optic nerve, currently affects 2.3 million Americans with another 2 million estimated to have the disease but are yet to be diagnosed.                        

Biggest Problem
Cataract problems, which have been described as looking through a cloudy veil, is the leading cause of blindness in the world. While many people in the US will undergo successful cataract surgery to correct the problem, a number of Americans aren't fortunate enough to have access to affordable care.

In a related survey conducted by the American Optometric Association, it was  found that while American's value their sight more than any other senses, many avoid eye exams and even engage in activities that could be harmful to their vision.

Because eye disease often begins in the 40's, it's important that adults have a baseline screening and see their doctors on a regular basis. Anyone with symptoms or one of the risk factors for eye disease including high blood pressure, diabetes or a family history of vision problems is urged to see their ophthalmologist to determine the frequency with which they should been seen.

"The good news is that in most cases, the effects of eye disease can be minimized through early detection and treatment," added Garrett. "We strongly urge everyone to make an appointment with their eye care professional today to help protect their sight."