Americans Are Not Doing Enough to Protect Their Vision - The Sense They Fear Losing Those Most - According to New Nationwide Lighthouse International Survey

     Those who are most at-risk and fear losing their vision do not get an annual eye exam  

NEW YORK, Oct. 19 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- While 82% of Americans fear losing their vision the most of all the senses and the majority say they get an annual eye exam, 86% of those who have (or are at-risk for) an eye disease fear losing their vision and do not get an annual eye exam, according to a new Harris Interactive Survey (on a variety of national issues) conducted by telephone in September 2010 for Lighthouse International, a leading non-profit organization fighting vision loss. The survey is believed to be the first national survey to examine vision loss, risk factors, barriers and motivation.

"Sixty one million Americans are at-risk of significant vision loss. A comprehensive annual eye exam is the most important step to preserving vision," said Mark G. Ackermann, President and CEO of Lighthouse International, a 105-year-old non-profit organization dedicated to fighting vision loss through prevention, treatment and empowerment.  

Fear of Vision Loss  

When asked, "What sense do you fear losing the most?" most (82%) said vision. 8% said hearing.

Those Most At-Risk Are Not Acting

Of those who fear losing their vision:

• 86% say they (or a family member) have an eye disease and do not get an annual eye exam.
• 86% say they (or a family member) have high blood pressure and do not get an annual eye exam.
• 86% say they (or a family member) have diabetes and do not get an annual eye exam.

Motivation  

Sixty two percent said "a problem or change in my vision" would motivate them to get an eye exam.  But according to Dr. Bruce Rosenthal, Chief of Low Vision Services, Lighthouse International, "Some eye diseases, such as glaucoma, have few symptoms, an annual eye exam is crucial even  if you do not perceive any vision problems or changes, especially if you have a family history.  Eighty percent of vision loss is preventable. "

Methodology

The survey was conducted within the United States by Harris Interactive for Lighthouse International from September 8-12, 2010 among 1004 adults 18 years and older.  Results were weighted to reflect the US adult population. These data have been repercentaged to reflect only those who selected a response and do not include those who selected "don't know" or refused at that particular question.

About Lighthouse International

Founded in 1905, Lighthouse International is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to fighting vision loss through prevention, treatment and empowerment. Contact 1-800-829-0500 or www.lighthouse.org.      

SOURCE Lighthouse International