Regular physical activity can help prevent common and potentially serious eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetes-related complications.
The hospitals Vithas Valencia Turia, Vithas Valencia 9 de Octubre, and Vithas Valencia Consuelo sponsor the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich Half Marathon and the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich Marathon.
HoyLunes (Valencia) – The Ophthalmology team at Vithas Valencia Turia Hospital, part of the Vithas Ophthalmology Institute (INOV), highlights the importance of incorporating regular physical activity as part of a healthy lifestyle to preserve eye health throughout life.
Engaging in regular exercise not only benefits cardiovascular health but also helps prevent common and potentially serious eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and diabetes-related vision problems.
According to Dr. Javier Montero, Head of Ophthalmology at Vithas Valencia Turia Hospital, “Several scientific studies have confirmed that those who exercise regularly have a significantly lower risk of developing these visual conditions, which contributes to improving their quality of life”.
With regard to glaucoma, one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide, recent research indicates that regular aerobic exercise, such as running or swimming, helps reduce intraocular pressure, the main risk factor for this disease. “According to data from the American Academy of Ophthalmology, exercising regularly can reduce the risk of developing glaucoma by up to 37%, with an additional 25% reduction in risk for every extra 10 minutes of moderate weekly exercise”, says Dr. Montero.
Similarly, European studies have shown that physically active individuals are up to 13% less likely to develop cataracts, the leading cause of reversible vision loss in older adults. According to Dr. Montero, “Even small daily doses of exercise reduce ocular oxidative stress and improve overall metabolic health, which are key factors in delaying the onset of this condition”.
Likewise, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy can significantly benefit from regular exercise. Dr. Montero emphasizes that “Physical activity improves ocular circulation and reduces metabolic factors associated with these retinal diseases”. Active individuals are 70% less likely to develop advanced AMD and 40% less likely to experience progression of diabetic retinopathy compared to sedentary individuals.
Practical Tips
In any case, the Ophthalmology team at Vithas Valencia Turia Hospital reminds patients that when exercising, certain practical tips should be followed to preserve eye health. It is recommended to use UV-protective glasses during outdoor exercise to shield the eyes from sunlight, dust, and pollen.
Maintaining good hydration before, during, and after exercise is also essential to prevent vision problems related to ocular dehydration, as well as following a balanced diet rich in antioxidants that promote eye health.
Specialists also recommend gradually increasing the intensity of physical activity to avoid sudden changes that may affect vision, and consulting a specialist if symptoms such as blurred vision, flashes of light, or eye pain occur while exercising. Regular eye exams are also important, especially for those with a family history of eye diseases.
Commitment to Health and Sports
It is worth highlighting that Vithas hospitals in Valencia collaborate in the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich Half Marathon and the Valencia Trinidad Alfonso Zurich Marathon. This reflects the commitment of Vithas Valencia Turia, Vithas Valencia 9 de Octubre, and Vithas Valencia Consuelo hospitals to prevention, health promotion, and the culture of effort.
About Vithas
The Vithas Group comprises 21 hospitals and 39 medical and healthcare centers across 14 provinces. Its 12,600 professionals have made Vithas one of the leaders in Spanish healthcare. In addition, the group includes the Vithas Foundation, Vithas Red Diagnóstica, and the PlazaSalud+ purchasing center.
Backed by the Goodgrower group, Vithas bases its corporate strategy on accredited healthcare quality, patient experience, research and innovation, and social and environmental commitment.
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