MADISON – Governor Tony Evers, in collaboration with Optometrists across the state, is proud to declare October 9 – 13, 2023, as “This Is Optometry” Week in Wisconsin. The proclamation aims to highlight the critical role optometry plays in the overall health and well-being of Wisconsinites.
The American Optometric Association’s (AOA) American Eye-Q consumer survey recently revealed that only 53 percent of respondents visit an eye health professional at least once a year, and one-third of those surveyed lacked an understanding of how to take care of their eyes and vision.
“Eye health and vision care are integral components of a person’s overall health and quality of life,” says Dr. Ryan Ames, 2023 WOA President and Oshkosh Optometrist. “Recent studies have shown that nearly 16 million Americans grapple with undiagnosed or untreated vision impairments, reinforcing the need for regular and comprehensive eye exams.”
Eye health and vision problems may develop without any obvious signs or symptoms. Through an in-person, annual eye exam, Doctors of Optometry can detect early signs of visual system diseases such as glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness. In addition, eye exams safeguard overall health by enabling the eye doctor to detect more than 270 serious health conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases and cancers.
As with many systemic diseases, most eye diseases, if detected early, may be treated before detrimental effects on health and vision can take place. If a problem is detected, Doctors of Optometry help patients and their families navigate to the right prevention plans or the next steps in official diagnosis and treatment.
“Wisconsin Optometrists are leading this public health mobilization initiative to address the current eye health and vision challenges facing citizens today,” states Dr. Ames. “The WOA and member Doctors of Optometry serve as a statewide force for vision and health, committed to educating and informing policymakers, employers, the news media and the public about essential eye health and vision care.”
Governor Evers urges all Wisconsinites to observe this week by seeking regular in-person, comprehensive eye exams and to prioritize their vision and eye health. By recognizing and celebrating the work of licensed eye doctors, Wisconsin is taking a step forward in fostering a healthier community.
To locate a licensed eye doctor near you, please visit http://www.woa-eyes.org/members.
For more information about “This is Optometry” Week or to schedule an interview, please contact WOA Communications Director Amanda Soelle at 608-824-2200 or amanda@woa-eyes.org.