03 | 23 | 2008 Posted By Regan Zambri & Long

Most Americans Lack Critical Facts About Maintaining Eye Health: New Study

National survey findings released this month demonstrate that although most adults are aware of serious eye diseases commonly associated with visual impairment, they lack critical knowledge concerning how and when to seek timely detection and treatment of those diseases.  The Survey of Public Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Eye Health and Disease, was jointly sponsored by the National Eye Institute (NEI), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF).  Conducted in 2005, the survey data was made available just this month. 

The findings of the study reinforce the critical importance of public education related to common eye diseases.  The NEI plans to use the survey results to design public health initiatives to raise awareness of eye health and the importance of early detection and treatment.  The agency also plans to expand its educational outreach to Hispanics, who face an increased risk of developing certain eye diseases and conditions.

Specific survey findings include the following:

  • "Most Americans do not know the risks and warning signs of diseases that could blind them.
  • Only 8% knew that there are no early warning signs of glaucoma.
  • Only 16% had ever heard of the term low vision, which is vision loss that neither eyeglasses nor medical therapies can help.
  • More than 70% surveyed say that a loss of their eyesight would have the greatest impact on their day-to-day life.
  • Many said they consider the loss of eyesight to be worse than losing an arm or leg, or the ability to hear or speak.
  • Hispanics knew the least about eye health.
  • Hispanics were the least likely to have their eyes examined.
  • 41% said that they had not seen or heard anything about eye health or disease in the last year."

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