Most Canadians are unaware of eye health until they start to lose it as they get older.
During Vision Health Month in May, Timmins ophthalmologist Dr. Alejandro Oliver says cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration are the most common age-related eye diseases.
“But especially here in the North,” he observes, “we see a lot of diabetes and diseases of circulation, because a lot of our population smoke, have high blood pressure and diabetes.”
Dr. Oliver says if you take care of your body, it takes care of your eyes. He says your eyes are a reflection of your general health.
The doctor brings attention to the hard work by eye care specialists to provide good care.
“Here in the North in particular, we are very short in manpower and for that reason, patients end up waiting a long time to see a specialist like myself, or having to travel down south.”
The audio of our interview with Dr. Oliver provides a lot more information. It’s attached below.
