Certain factors increase your likelihood of developing vision problems. Although we do not have control over some things, such as age and family history, we know the choices we make can play a role in keeping our eyes healthy and maintaining good vision. 

Do you know your cholesterol level? Many of us don’t. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is naturally found in the body. Certain foods also contain high levels of cholesterol. While your body needs some cholesterol, too much can contribute to a variety of diseases and medical conditions.

High cholesterol can also affect your eyes and vision both indirectly and directly. February is American Heart Month. It is a good opportunity to learn more about how cholesterol affects the eyes and how to manage levels. 
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We know that maintaining a healthy weight is beneficial for overall well-being. Being overweight can increase your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer, but did you know that carrying excess weight can also increase your chances of developing certain vision problems? Getting to and maintaining a healthy weight should be a priority. 

Diabetes affects millions of people in the United States. It can increase your risk of various health conditions, such as heart disease and kidney disease. Diabetes can also affect the eyes and threaten vision.

Although most often it is adults that are affected by diabetes, children can also develop the condition. According to the American Diabetes Association, about 210,000 young people under the age of 20 are estimated to have diabetes. 
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Blood pressure is the force of circulating blood against your vessels. It is measured by two numbers, including the systolic and the diastolic. The systolic or top number is the pressure as the heart beats. The diastolic or bottom number is the force when the heart rests. 

​According to the American Stroke Association, when the systolic number is 130 or higher and/or the diastolic number is 80 or higher consistently, it is considered high blood pressure or hypertension.