By Dr. Deborah Oparaji (OD)
Have you ever wondered why some people see colour differently or are born with eye conditions that affect their vision over time? The answer lies deep in our DNA. Genetics play a vital role in shaping how we see the world—from mild colour blindness to more serious hereditary visual impairments.
At SpecSMART Eye Clinic in Ikoyi, we’re passionate about helping you understand the science behind your eyes. This article explores how your genes impact your eyesight and what steps you can take for early detection and better eye health.
What Is Colour Blindness, and Why Does It Happen?
Colour blindness is one of the most common inherited visual conditions. It occurs when the cone cells in the retina—the part of your eye responsible for detecting colour—are missing or don't function correctly. These cells depend on special photopigments to perceive red, green, and blue light.
In most cases, colour blindness is genetic, passed down through an X-linked recessive pattern. Since males have only one X chromosome, they are more likely to be affected.
Common types of colour blindness:
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Protanopia: Difficulty seeing red shades due to absent or faulty red cones.
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Deuteranopia: Trouble distinguishing green tones caused by faulty green cones.
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Tritanopia (less common): Affects blue-yellow discrimination.
For people with colour blindness, simple tasks like reading traffic lights, choosing matching clothes, or interpreting data visuals can become more challenging.
Other Genetic Eye Conditions
Beyond colour blindness, several other hereditary eye diseases can impact vision significantly:
1. Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP)
A group of genetic disorders that affect the retina and lead to progressive peripheral vision loss. Night blindness is often one of the first symptoms.
2. Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA)
Usually diagnosed in infancy, this condition causes severe vision loss or blindness due to poor development of the retina.
3. Macular Degeneration (AMD)
While often linked to aging, some forms of AMD have genetic links. It affects central vision and makes tasks like reading or recognizing faces difficult.
Why Genetic Testing Matters
Understanding your family's eye health history can help you take preventive steps early. Genetic testing:
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Identifies inherited eye conditions before symptoms show
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Guides treatment decisions and care plans
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Helps inform family members about potential risks
At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi, we recommend early screening for anyone with a family history of vision problems.
Supporting Eye Health Beyond Genetics
Genetics isn’t the whole story. Your environment, nutrition, and habits also play a major role in eye health. Here’s what you can do:
Eat Eye-Healthy Foods
Consume foods rich in:
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Vitamin A (carrots, spinach)
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Vitamin C (oranges, bell peppers)
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Vitamin E (almonds, sunflower seeds)
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Omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, tuna)
Protect Your Eyes
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Wear sunglasses that block 99–100% UVA and UVB rays
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Limit screen time and follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds)
Maintain Regular Eye Exams
Early detection can prevent minor problems from becoming serious. Visit your optometrist annually—even if you have no current symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can colour blindness be treated?
Currently, there's no cure, but special lenses and assistive technology can help with colour discrimination.
Is colour blindness always inherited?
Most cases are genetic, but in rare cases, trauma or disease may cause acquired colour blindness.
Are hereditary eye diseases preventable?
While you can’t change your genetics, early screening and healthy lifestyle choices can delay progression and reduce severity.
Should I get genetic testing for eye health?
If you have a family history of eye disease, genetic testing can be helpful for early intervention. Speak with your optometrist to explore this option.
📍Contact SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikoyi
Address: Ikoyi Plaza, Keffi Street, Ikoyi
📞 0701 820 7486