Eye Q

Sana Lifestyle
Nov 28, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Jan 24

Research in South Africa consistently indicates that women experience a higher prevalence of visual impairment (VI) and blindness than men. Globally, women make up two out of every three people with vision issues.

Stats:

- One 2024 study in Limpopo found that 56.1% of participants were women and the overall prevalence of VI was 61.5%.

- A November 2024 study in the Eastern Cape observed that 76.4% of participants were female, and of those, 44.58% were affected by VI and blindness.

- Another national survey analysis (data from 2011-2012, published 2021) found that female sex was significantly associated with increased odds of vision loss.

The main causes of VI and blindness in South Africa are avoidable or treatable:

• Uncorrected refractive error (URE), problems that require glasses).

• Cataracts are another major cause, accounting for a significantly higher proportion of blindness in South Africa than the global average.

•Glaucoma is also a significant cause of blindness, particularly in older populations.

Why We Are At higher Risk:

- Longevity

- Hormonal changes

- Specific diseases

- Autoimmune diseases

Protect Your Eyes:

• Get regular eye exams

• UV protection

• Eat a healthy diet

• Quit smoking & vaping

• Practice eye safety & hygiene (contact lenses and makeup)

• Family history

• Manage health conditions (diabetes/ gestational diabetes or thyroid issues)

Did You Know?

Oestrogen and progesterone can impact vision. Hormonal imbalances, particularly those related to thyroid dysfunction, can result in blurred vision. Changing levels of hormones can affect the eye’s oil glands, leading to dry eye—one of the most common conditions experienced by women going through menopause.

Pregnancy:

Hormones that support fetal development can affect the eyes by:

• Increasing intraocular pressure

• Reducing tear production

• Altering corneal thickness and shape

• These changes often cause blurred vision, which usually resolves postpartum.

Diet:

- Lutein and Zeaxanthin (dark leafy greens, eggs, carrots & broccoli)

- Vitamins A and Beta-Carotene

- Vitamins C and E

- Omega-3 Fatty Acids

- Zinc