The Pennsylvania Academy of Ophthalmology reminds Pennsylvania residents a baseline eye disease screening at age 40 is critical to preserving healthy vision.

Early signs of eye disease and changes in vision may start to occur around age 40, and even those with perfect vision should be screened at that time.

People with eye disease symptoms or risk factors should also be screened.

By 2020, an estimated 43 million Americans will face significant vision loss or blindness from age-related eye diseases, such as cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration.

Despite these trends, many Americans remain unaware of the dangers of vision loss.

A survey conducted by the American Academy of Ophthalmology reveals less than a quarter of Americans (23 percent) are very concerned about losing their vision, while a majority feel weight gain or joint and back pain are of greater concern than vision loss.

"Unfortunately, millions of people will suffer significant vision loss and blindness because they don't know the risks or don't get a routine eye exam when they should," said Roger Zelt, MD, PAO president. "Vision impairment from eye disease can impact your ability to function independently and eventually lead to permanent blindness.

"That is why it's so important to catch eye disease early through comprehensive eye exams."

To detect eye diseases early, before vision is lost, the American Academy of Ophthalmology offers the following sight-saving recommendations:

· Get a comprehensive eye exam if you experience symptoms or have risk factors for eye disease, such as diabetes or a family history of eye disease.

· Get a baseline eye exam by age 40, even if your vision seems perfect. This is the age when early signs of eye disease may begin to occur.

· Schedule an eye exam every one to two years if you are age 65 or older.

Based on the results of an initial screening, an ophthalmologist – an eye physician and surgeon – will determine the necessary intervals for follow-up exams.

For more information about eye disease risk factors or to find an ophthalmologist near you, visit www.geteyesmart.org.

Find an eye doctor in your area by visiting paeyemds.org.

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Editor's note: The Pennsylvania Academy of Ophthalmology has been working to preserve and protect vision and eye health for Pennsylvania's citizens since 1943.

With member physicians throughout the commonwealth, the PAO strives to be the voice of ophthalmology; making efforts to ensure quality eye care on the legislative and regulatory fronts, while building and maintaining relationships with major insurance carriers within the state.