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The Health Exam Many Don’t Know They Need
Only about one-third of adults know many vision-threatening eye diseases begin without symptoms, the American Academy of Ophthalmology said.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends all healthy adults receive a medical eye exam at least once in their 30s, though most Americans wait until they notice vision changes before scheduling an appointment.
According to a poll, only about one-third of adults know many vision-threatening eye diseases begin without noticeable symptoms, explaining why early detection through regular exams remains critical.
Eye health and heart health are closely linked; professionals can identify signs of heart disease by examining blood supply to the retina, while regular exams also help catch diabetes and high blood pressure.
For some diseases, once vision is lost, it cannot be restored, making diabetes a particularly serious concern as a leading cause of preventable vision loss.
Individuals with a family history of eye disease or pre-existing conditions like diabetes should prioritize screenings, as proactive monitoring remains the most effective strategy to preserve vision and overall health.