Five Tips to Protect Women’s Eye Health

October 28, 2025

Most women don’t realize they face a higher risk of vision loss than men. In fact, the World Health Organization estimates that nearly two out of three people living with vision impairment are women. This is not just because women live longer—though longevity plays a role. Women are also more likely to develop certain eye diseases, experience hormone-related changes that affect vision, and undergo medical treatments (such as some cancer therapies) that can impact eye health.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology:

Women account for about 65% of age-related macular degeneration cases.
They make up 61% of cataract and glaucoma cases.
About two-thirds of people who are blind worldwide are women.

Why Women Are at Greater Risk

Several factors increase women’s likelihood of developing eye disease:

Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, or from hormone therapy
Autoimmune conditions, which are more common in women and can affect the eyes
Smoking, which raises the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration
Nutritional deficiencies earlier in life
Skipping regular eye exams, especially after age 40

The good news: women can take proactive steps to protect their vision. Here are five evidence-based ways to safeguard eye health.

Five Tips to Protect Your Eyes

1. Get an Annual Comprehensive Eye Exam

Eye exams do more than check your vision. Eye doctors can detect early signs of over 270 systemic conditions, including diabetes and high blood pressure, during a routine exam (American Optometric Association). Regular exams are especially important after age 40, when risks for glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration increase.

2. Wear Sunglasses Year-Round

UV rays don’t take a season off. Long-term sun exposure raises the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration. Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays—and wear them even on cloudy days.

3. Don’t Smoke

Smoking damages blood vessels and accelerates eye disease. It’s strongly linked to cataracts, macular degeneration, and optic nerve damage. Quitting smoking is one of the most powerful steps you can take to protect both your eyes and overall health.

4. Eat a Colorful, Nutrient-Rich Diet

Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins C, E, and B1 (thiamine), as well as antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, help protect against cataracts and macular degeneration. Leafy greens, citrus fruits, berries, peppers, and avocados are excellent choices. A plant-rich diet also lowers the risk of diabetes, which can lead to diabetic eye disease.

5. Use Protective Eyewear

Eye injuries are common—and preventable. Each year, thousands of sports, workplace, and home-related eye injuries occur. Safety glasses, goggles, or face shields can prevent up to 90% of serious eye injuries. Wear protective eyewear when playing sports, working with tools, or handling chemicals.

The Bottom Line

Women face unique risks when it comes to eye health, but awareness and prevention go a long way. By scheduling regular exams, protecting against UV light, avoiding smoking, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and using protective eyewear, women can significantly reduce their chances of vision loss.

Your eyes are for life—protect them now to see clearly into the future.

Sources