2020 Vision Calculator

This calculator helps you assess your risk of vision impairment based on your lifestyle choices and daily habits. Around 2.2 billion people worldwide have some form of vision impairment, and nearly 50% of these cases could have been prevented through lifestyle modifications and early intervention.

Understanding Vision Health

20/20 vision is considered normal visual acuity, meaning you can clearly see what an average person can see from 20 feet away. However, maintaining good vision involves more than just genetics - your lifestyle choices play a crucial role in preserving your eye health.

How This Calculator Works

Our calculator evaluates three key areas that impact vision health:

1. Physical Activity Level

   • Work-related activity
   • Household activities
   • Exercise and sports participation
   • Regular walking, hiking, or cycling

2. Dietary Habits

   • Consumption of fruits, vegetables, and legumes
   • Intake of fish and whole grains
   • Use of olive oil
   • Alcohol consumption

3. Smoking Status

   • Current smoking habits
   • History of smoking
   • Pack-years of smoking

The Science Behind Vision Health

The calculator is based on findings from the CONSTANCES cohort study, which analyzed the relationship between lifestyle factors and vision impairment in the adult population. The study revealed that:

• Sedentary behavior increases vision impairment risk
• A Mediterranean-style diet helps protect eye health
• Heavy smoking significantly impacts vision

Interpreting Your Results

The calculator provides a risk assessment based on:

• Activity Score: Evaluates your physical activity level from sedentary to highly active
• Diet Score: Assesses your dietary habits against the Mediterranean diet model
• Smoking Impact: Considers both current and past smoking habits

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Vision

1. Stay Active

   • Take regular breaks from sitting
   • Engage in moderate exercise regularly
   • Include various physical activities in your routine

2. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

   • Every 20 minutes
   • Look at something 20 feet away
   • For at least 20 seconds

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet

   • Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables
   • Include fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids
   • Use olive oil as your primary fat source
   • Limit alcohol consumption

4. Avoid Smoking

   • Quit smoking or avoid starting
   • Minimize exposure to secondhand smoke
   • Seek professional help for smoking cessation

Regular Eye Check-ups

While lifestyle modifications are important, regular eye examinations are essential for maintaining eye health. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends:

• Adults under 40: Every 2-4 years
• Adults 40-54: Every 2-4 years
• Adults 55-64: Every 1-3 years
• Adults 65+: Every 1-2 years

Important Note: This calculator provides an assessment based on lifestyle factors but should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult an eye care professional for comprehensive eye health evaluation and personalized recommendations.

References

1. World Health Organization (WHO) - Vision Impairment and Blindness
2. American Academy of Ophthalmology - Eye Health Statistics
3. CONSTANCES Cohort Study - Lifestyle Factors and Vision Health
4. Mediterranean Diet and Eye Health Studies