There are many things that we can blame on our genetics, but is your eyesight one of them? The classic debate has always revolved around nature versus nurture, and that begs the question of whether or not it is genes that affect eyesight or your lifestyle. We will dive a little bit deeper to get to the root of the debate and put this question to rest.
If you are in need of LASIK in Orange County, Advance Eye Medical is there for you.
Do Genes Play A Role in Eyesight?
The short answer is yes, genetics play a significant role in eyesight problems. According to The Tech Museum of Innovations, “recent studies have shown that if both your parents are nearsighted, then you have about a 1 in 3 chance of being nearsighted too.” These odds are compared to the 1 to 5 odds if you only have one nearsighted parent, and the 1 to 40 odds if neither of your parents are nearsighted. This study shows significant findings in favor that your odds of having eye problems increases when your parents have the trait as well. However, this study did not prove conclusively that it solely is due to genetics. It is possible that the family’s lifestyle and habits may also paly a role in whether nearsightedness is developed, so again the question of nature versus nurture arises.
To further the study, scientists decided to test the theory on twins. A twin study is unique for this type of debate because identical twins share the same genes and fraternal twins do not; however, both sets of twins are raised in the same environment from birth. A conclusion can be made that if something occurs more in identical twins than fraternal twins, the cause must be genetics over environment. This study showed that about 90% of near and farsightedness are related to genetics.
What Eyesight Problems Are Related to Genes?
The study presented above concluded that near and farsightedness is caused by genetics, but what other eyesight problems have been linked to genetics? Color blindness has also been linked to genetics, as well as a rare progressive decline of the retina called retinitis pigmentosa. This just goes to show that even more of our traits are hereditary and the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. For any vision problems you may have, and to get LASIK in Orange County, contact Advance Eye Medical today to schedule a consultation.
Proof Against Eyesight Genetics
Not all vision problems are as conclusive as near and farsightedness. One major eye disease that has a more mixed conclusion is glaucoma. This disease causes damage to the optic nerve because of fluid build up. Another disease not linked to genetics is age related macular degeneration, which affects the retina and becomes symptomatic over a very long, gradual time. Because it is linked to age, it is difficult to prove whether genetics are the reason behind this disease, or if it has more to do with your eyesight habits.
Ultimately, not all vision problems can be blamed on genetics and there are other factors to consider. Because the younger generations are spending more time indoors and using screens, their eyes are under more strain than previous generations. A study conducted by the University of Cambridge proved that a child’s exposure to sunlight improves their vision, so time outside is extremely valuable for the health of your vision. It has been a long-standing belief that certain vitamins and nutrients are also helpful for strong vision.
Whether your eyesight problems are hereditary or not, it is important to get your vision checked regularly. To talk to an eye doctor and discuss LASIK in Orange County, contact Dr. Ghosheh at Advanced Eye Medical today for a consultation.