Is Poor Vision Genetic?

Poor vision can sometimes be passed down from parents to children. Some eye problems, like certain types of cataracts or retinal diseases, are caused by changes in our genes. This means that if someone in your family has these eye conditions, you might be more likely to have them, too. Researchers have found many inherited conditions that affect how the eyes work. For example, studies have shown that inherited cataracts happen when changes in our genes affect the clear lens in our eyes. Other research has looked at inherited retinal diseases that can lead to vision loss. While genetics play a big role in some types of poor vision, there are also other causes like injuries or environmental factors. It is important to have regular eye exams, especially if you have a family history of eye problems, so that an eye doctor can check your vision and catch any issues early. Learning about your family’s eye health can help you take the best steps to protect your vision.