The eyes are a fundamental organ for our vision and are essential for the functioning of our body, but they are also a possible indicator of certain diseases.
In fact, several researches and studies have shown that certain eye colours are more linked to specific diseases.
This correlation has been thoroughly analysed by the scientific community and the results have been surprising.
In this photogallery, we will discover how eye colour can be a risk factor for certain diseases and why it is important to monitor eye health regularly to prevent and treat any health problems in good time.
The eyes are a fundamental organ for our vision and are essential for the functioning of our body, but they are also a possible indicator of certain diseases. In fact, several researches and studies have shown that certain eye colours are more linked to specific diseases. This correlation has been thoroughly analysed by the scientific community and the results have been surprising. In this photogallery, we will discover how eye colour can be a risk factor for certain diseases and why it is important to monitor eye health regularly to prevent and treat any health problems in good time.
A study published in the journal Cancer Causes and Control in 2021 showed that people with hazel, green or blue eyes have up to 24% higher risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma and up to 17% higher risk of developing basal cell carcinoma than people with dark eyes. This is because people with light irises have less pigment in both their skin and their eyes, a factor that increases the risk of skin cancer.
The AAO states that people with brown eyes have a lower incidence of developing both of these conditions than people with light eyes. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that affects the macula of the retina and causes loss of central vision, preventing fine details from being distinguished: it is the leading cause of vision loss for the elderly over 50. Diabetic retinopathy, on the other hand, affects the blood vessels in the retina and can lead to vision loss.
Research in 2014 showed that people with dark eyes may be more likely to develop cataracts. Scientists speculate that the high amount of melanin in the irises of brown eyes could cause heat build-up in the eye, but they are not sure why. (source: AARP)
Knowledge of the links between certain eye colours and specific diseases can be of great help in preventing and monitoring eye conditions. However, it is important to remember that each individual is unique and that a given disease can also manifest itself in eye colours other than those traditionally associated with it. For this reason, it is essential to take a personalised approach to preventing and caring for one's eyes. Regular eye check-ups, a healthy, balanced diet and the use of protective equipment during potentially harmful activities can help preserve long-term eye health. Furthermore, it is important to consult an ophthalmologist in case of abnormal symptoms or changes in vision. Only through careful and continuous care can we protect the health of our eyes and preserve our ability to fully enjoy the world around us.