Men's Health and Retinal Conditions
June is Men's Health Month. This is an important time to highlight various health issues that disproportionately affect men. Several retinal conditions are observed more frequently in men than in women. Here are a few:
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
While AMD affects both men and women, certain studies suggest that the neovascular (wet) form of AMD might be more common in men. This condition leads to the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina, causing vision loss.
Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO)
Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO) and Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO) are conditions where blood flow through the retinal vein becomes blocked. Men are slightly more prone to these conditions, especially CRVO.
Risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, which are more prevalent in men, contribute to this higher incidence.
Choroideremia
Choroideremia is a rare, inherited disorder that causes progressive vision loss due to degeneration of the choroid, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and retina. It primarily affects males because it is an X-linked recessive disorder. Females can be carriers but usually do not exhibit severe symptoms.
X-linked Retinoschisis
This genetic condition affects the retina and is characterized by splitting of the retinal layers, leading to vision impairment. It is also an X-linked disorder, hence it predominantly affects males.
Leber Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON)
This mitochondrial genetic disorder leads to loss of central vision. Although both genders can be affected, men are more frequently symptomatic and tend to exhibit more severe vision loss than women.
Optic Neuritis
Although optic neuritis is more common in women overall, certain types, particularly those associated with neuromyelitis optica (NMO), might show a higher prevalence in men in some populations.
Understanding these conditions and their higher prevalence in men can lead to better screening, early diagnosis, and tailored treatment strategies to preserve vision and overall eye health in men. Regular eye exams and awareness of family medical history are crucial steps in managing the risk of these retinal conditions.
Consult with a Retina Specialist Today
Austin Retina Associates treats a wide range of retinal conditions. Our experienced team of retina specialists in Austin are dedicated to improving your vision and quality of life.
Contact us at 800-252-8259, or request an appointment online at one of our retina treatment centers located in Austin and throughout Central Texas.
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