Black Americans are at higher risk for eye diseases like diabetic macular edema, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma, which can lead to vision loss and blindness unless detected early.

To help increase eye health awareness and promote early detection of eye disease, the National Eye Institute (NEI) and its National Eye Health Education Program (NEHEP) have launched Write the Vision: Make Your Plan to Protect Your Sight.

This new initiative is developed specifically for Black Americans and offers tips like the following to help protect your sight.

1. Get a comprehensive dilated eye exam.

Because many eye diseases have no warning signs or symptoms, early detection is important for preventing vision loss and blindness. Black Americans age 40 or older should have a comprehensive dilated eye exam as part of their regular healthcare routine, as directed by their eye care professional.

For the full story, please visit Blackdoctor.org