The link between Retinal Health and Family History: Experts
The link between Retinal Health and Family History: Experts
Poor eyesight is neither a dominant nor recessive trait, but it does tend to run in families. According to Indian Journal of Ophthalmology, over 2 million people worldwide are suffering from gene-related retinal diseases, inherited or acquired, and over 270 genes have been identified which are found to be responsible for these conditions.1 Genetic factors have been associated with key retinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, a diabetes complication that affects eyes, and age – related macular degeneration that can blur your central vision and is caused due to aging.
Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) and Family History
Diabetic retinopathy is a condition where the blood vessels of the retina are damaged. The frequency and severity of DR among patients with diabetes is heterogeneous. There are diabetic patients that develop DR despite a short duration of diabetes and/or excellent glycemic control and other diabetic patients who do not develop DR in the face of long-standing diabetes and/or long-term hyperglycemia. Genetic variation may explain some of the remaining heterogeneity in DR development. In India, over 73 million people are affected by diabetes, and the risk of developing DR in these patients due to genetic factors is up to 50%[1][2], as per studies.
Genetics and Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Age-related macular degeneration is a progressive disease that affects a patient’s central vision. About 15% to 20% people with AMD have at least one first-degree relative such as a parent or a sibling with the condition[3]. Poor lifestyle, smoking, underlying medical conditions and bad eating habits are some of the key factors that develop or increase the risk of this disease. Researchers have found over 30 genes associated with AMD.
According to Dr. Chaitra Jayadev, Chief of Vitreo-Retinal Services, Narayana Nethralaya Eye Institute, Bangalore, “DR and AMD do have a hereditary tendency; this depends on one’s race, geographical location, and lifestyle. There are over 250 different genes known to cause inherited retinal diseases. A screening test or examination is needed initially to determine whether a genetic condition runs in the family. If predisposing factors are identified, a regular follow up is required for early detection and timely treatment.”
Ignoring retinal health can not only cause severe discomfort but it can also cause permanent blindness. If you have a family history of eye diseases, make sure you consult the ophthalmologist regularly, and combine it with the discipline to continue treatment and lead a healthy life
