Eye Health Issues
Glaucoma is an eye disease known as the silent thief of sight, as optic nerve damage leads to gradual vision loss. Asian Americans are more likely to develop angle-closure glaucoma – a rapid pressure increase in the eye – than the general population. Myopia (Nearsightedness), or trouble seeing far away, is significantly more common among Asian American populations. It affects approximately 80% of this group. |
Despite their higher risk for myopia, Asian Americans are the least likely demographic group to make an eye appointment when having trouble seeing far away. They are also the most likely to believe that wearing eyeglasses can make their vision and eye health get worse, which is not the case.
General Health Issues
Diabetes can be detected through an eye exam, even in its earlier stages. It can cause blurred vision and, over time, lead to diabetic retinopathy – so regular eyecare for people with diabetes is critical. Diabetes is the fifth leading cause of death among Asian Americans 45-64. Because Asian Americans are less likely to be obese, doctors are often late with the diagnosis.
Tuberculosis can lead to a number of diseases throughout the body and eye, including ocular tuberculosis. It is 13 times more common among Asian populations, especially women.
General Health Issues
Diabetes can be detected through an eye exam, even in its earlier stages. It can cause blurred vision and, over time, lead to diabetic retinopathy – so regular eyecare for people with diabetes is critical. Diabetes is the fifth leading cause of death among Asian Americans 45-64. Because Asian Americans are less likely to be obese, doctors are often late with the diagnosis.
Tuberculosis can lead to a number of diseases throughout the body and eye, including ocular tuberculosis. It is 13 times more common among Asian populations, especially women.