PASADENA, CA -- 06/19/08 --
More than 30 million adults over 40 suffer
from cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration and glaucoma,
according to a recent study. The situation is getting worse and is
predicted to double in the next 30 years. Although surgery is an option for
some, prevention is possible with early detection according to research
reported on by feelgoodforlife.com.
Multivitamins, and especially
zinc, vitamins A and C, beta-carotene and anti-oxidants, may help.
The updated study, Vision Problems in the U.S., conducted by Prevent
Blindness America and the National Eye Institute, found that age-related
macular degeneration rose 25 percent since 2002. Diabetic retinopathy,
glaucoma and cataracts are also prevalent and the incidence of these
diseases is expected to increase.
Vision loss affects the quality of life for millions of Americans according
to Prevent Blindness America. Educating the public to ensure they
understand the need for regular eye care is of primary concern. As adult
vision problems in the United States cost $51.4 billion annually, reducing
vision problems could also save significant healthcare dollars.
To prevent eye disease, experts advise wearing sunglasses to protect the
eyes from harmful UV rays, reading with adequate light, regular eye exams,
a healthy diet, no smoking, and multivitamins.
Although several vitamins, minerals and other nutrients are specifically
beneficial to the eyes -- vitamins A, C, D, E, beta-carotene, zinc, other
anti-oxidants and lutein being the most prominent -- healthy eyes are
dependent on overall good health. Diabetes, for example, is a major cause
of eye disease and, along with eating a healthy diet, may be prevented with
B complex vitamins, especially vitamin B3. Macular degeneration has been
associated with vitamin A deficiency, and glaucoma with inadequate thiamine
(vitamin B1) and B12.
In fact, some experts feel that a deficiency of even one nutrient can cause
vision problems. Taking multivitamins, rather than just those designated
for eye care, may be vital to save your vision.
June is Vision Research Month. For scientists and doctors, that research
will be conducted in labs and through clinical studies. For the layman,
this month would be best spent finding a good eye doctor and adopting a
healthy diet, including a good multivitamin supplement.
For more information on men's a women's health, vitamins, minerals and
other nutrients, see www.feelgoodforlife.com.
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Contact:
Media Contact
Sally Falkow
Sallyf@expansionplus.com
626.793.4911 ext. 105
