It seems researchers have confirmed that we inherit more than just eye colour from our parents – conditions like cataracts and glaucoma may run in the family too.
Ophthalmologist Dr Justin Mora says family history plays a role in many kinds of eye disease, including those which can lead to blindness. In New Zealand macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness, followed by glaucoma – and both are linked to genetics.
Eyesight is precious and early detection is vital to make treatement most effective. Statistics show the risk of glaucoma increases with age and is five to ten times higher if your immediate family has it.
"Twenty per cent of cases of congenital cataracts are inherited and if there’s a family history of the disease, you have a 50:50 chance of developing it,” says Dr Mora.
Your family history also includes common vision problems such as lazy eye, crossed-eyes (squint) and near and far-sightedness.
Dr Mora says the routine tests children have before starting primary school should identify any issues with sight, though an eye test can be done at any time if parents are concerned about their child's vision.
If there is a family history of eye problems, adults should have their eyes tested by an optometrist or ophthalmologist every 5 years from the age of 40, every 3 years from age 50 and every 2 years from age 60.
Children have their eyes tested as part of regular health checks but if parents have any concerns, they should have their eyes checked professionally.
An eye examination is a simple process which usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes – longer if you need additional tests. As well as testing your sight, we will check the health of your eyes, look for signs of general health problems and gather information from you, including any family history of eye disease.
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