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Study: Ethnic minorities are not taking steps to protect eye health

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SALT LAKE CITY — Ethnic minorities are more likely than the general population to develop serious eye and overall health issues that can take a toll on their vision, Transitions representatives told PRIMARY CARE OPTOMETRY NEWS at Optometry's Meeting.

A study by Transitions Optical used a representative sample of more than 2,200 Americans 18 years and older, including samples of the general population and African-American, Asian-American and Hispanic subgroups. It revealed that two out of three people do not know that their ethnicity could be putting them at higher risk.

Survey results also suggest that ethnic minority groups may not be taking adequate steps to protect their vision. Less than four out of 10 Americans reported visiting their eye doctor within the past 12 months, with consistent responses across all demographic groups. Additionally, the survey confirmed low understanding of the dangers of ultraviolet radiation - with one in four Americans believing that it is only important to protect their eyes from UV rays during the spring and summer months. Ethnic minorities, particularly Asians, were more likely than the general population to believe year-round UV protection is not necessary.

"These results validate an urgent need to educate all Americans, particularly at-risk ethnic minority groups, about the importance of UV protection and regular eye exams," Manuel Solis, multicultural marketing manager, Transitions Optical, said in a press release.