Have you ever wondered if men are more prone to certain eye conditions than women?
The answer is yes—and understanding these risks is the first step toward protecting long-term vision health. At Pendleton Eye Center, we’re committed to helping men in Oceanside and the greater North County San Diego area protect and preserve their sight through early detection, advanced diagnostics, and personalized care.
Men’s Vision Health is often an overlooked part of routine wellness, yet vision changes can affect everything from driving and working to enjoying hobbies and time with family. June is Men’s Health Month—a timely reminder to learn more about the unique risks men face when it comes to their eyes.
Let’s take a closer look at the top five eye conditions men are more likely to develop, what symptoms to watch out for, and how Pendleton Eye Center can help.
1. Color Blindness
One of the most well-known eye conditions that primarily affects men is color blindness—specifically red-green color deficiency. According to the National Eye Institute, about 8% of men have some form of color vision deficiency, compared to only 0.5% of women. This is because the gene responsible for the most common type of color blindness is found on the X chromosome, and men only have one X chromosome.
2. Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a serious eye disease that damages the optic nerve and can lead to permanent vision loss. Men over 60—especially those of African or Hispanic descent—are at higher risk. Glaucoma has been called the “silent thief of sight” because it often has no early symptoms.
According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, more than 3 million Americans have glaucoma, but only half know it.
3. Cataracts
Cataracts, the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, are extremely common as we age—but men may be more likely to delay surgery, increasing the risk of falls, driving accidents, and reduced quality of life.
While both men and women develop cataracts, men often wait until vision loss interferes with daily tasks. A study published in The British Journal of Ophthalmology found men are less likely to seek cataract surgery promptly than women.
4. Diabetic Retinopathy
Men are more likely to have uncontrolled diabetes, putting them at greater risk for diabetic retinopathy, a sight-threatening complication of diabetes that damages blood vessels in the retina.
According to the CDC, men have higher rates of undiagnosed diabetes, which increases their risk of complications like diabetic eye disease.
5. Retinal Detachment
Men are more likely to experience trauma-related eye injuries, including retinal detachment, especially those who work in high-risk jobs or play contact sports. This condition occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye and is considered a medical emergency.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, men are nearly twice as likely to suffer retinal detachment than women, especially between ages 40 and 70.
The Importance of Routine Eye Exams for Men
Men often skip routine health visits including eye exams—which can lead to undiagnosed or untreated vision problems. At Pendleton Eye Center, we encourage men of all ages to make vision health a priority. Whether you’re dealing with age-related vision changes, managing a chronic condition like diabetes, or recovering from an eye injury, our team is here to help you see your best.
Conclusion
Men face unique risks when it comes to eye health, but regular check-ups and early treatment can make all the difference. At Pendleton Eye Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of men’s eye conditions using state-of-the-art technology and personalized care.
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—schedule your comprehensive eye exam today by calling us at (760) 758-2008
Your future vision depends on the steps you take now.
