National survey highlights eye-care

Survey results, which were released to coincide with Eye Care Awareness Week (5 - 9 October 2009) and World Sight Day (8 October), also revealed that almost a third of respondents believe that caffeine consumption is an unhealthy habit that causes damage to the eyes. While the damaging effects of caffeine on the eyes has not yet been confirmed, more concerning is that only half (52%) of respondents admitted to visiting an optometrist less than once a year and a mere three out of 10 respondents stated that they would only visit an optometrist when they have visual problems. However, according to Richard Pearson, country manager Transitions Optical South Africa, visiting an optometrist is about more than just an eye test: “Systemic diseases such as diabetes and glaucoma can be easily detected by means of an eye test.”

Choosing sight over sex, the survey also revealed that eight out of 10 South Africans value their sight more than any other sense including their libido, which was only given merit by 11% of the respondents. According to Dr Nicky Welsh, ophthalmologist at Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre, it may be worthwhile for the remaining 89% to note that four oysters are known to boost your libido. “Oysters, commonly referred to as ‘kings of zinc', contain on average 100 times more zinc than any other marine animal,” says Dr Welsh. “Zinc is an essential component of many enzymes, including those producing light-sensing retinal from vitamin A. Without zinc, beta-carotene (found in carrots) cannot prevent night blindness and other adverse effects of vitamin A deficiency.”

“‘Eye food' can be found in many types of fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, legumes, seeds and seafood. Soy beans, flaxseeds and salmon are crammed with anti-oxidants, carotenoids, minerals and vitamins,” adds Dr Welsh. “What few consumers realise is that there is an abundance of food on supermarket shelves bursting with essential nutrients; all beneficial for the eyes.”

On a positive note, the results revealed that South Africans have increased their knowledge and awareness of the irreversible damage extended exposure to UV rays can cause; 90% are aware compared to only 15% in last year's survey.

Pearson concludes: “Wearing corrective spectacle lenses could help reverse ones lens prescription over time and protecting the eyes from harmful UV rays can help reduce the onset of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).”