April blog underscores how gender and cultural factors intersect to influence vision outcomes
Boynton Beach, FL (April 2, 2026) — In recognition of Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month, Latinos en Optometry has released its April Cultural Responsiveness blog, “When Gender and Culture Intersect: Eye Health Disparities in Hispanic Women,” authored by Board member Diana L. Shechtman, O.D., F.A.A.O.
The blog explores how gender and ethnicity intersect to increase the risk of vision loss among Hispanic women. National data show that women account for nearly two-thirds of blindness and visual impairment in the United States. Research from the Los Angeles Latino Eye Study further indicates that Latino adults experience higher rates of certain eye diseases compared to non-Hispanic whites, with female gender identified as an independent risk factor within that population.
Dr. Shechtman notes that Hispanic women may face compounded risk due to longer life expectancy, higher rates of diabetes, and barriers to preventive care. “Women’s Eye Health and Safety Month provides an important opportunity to raise awareness,” she said. “As optometrists, we must clearly link systemic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension to vision outcomes, particularly for high-risk patients.”
The blog also examines structural and cultural factors that shape care utilization. Language barriers, delayed diagnosis of chronic disease, and caregiving responsibilities can limit timely access to eye care. Hispanic women often serve as primary health decision-makers within their families and may delay their own exams while focusing on the needs of others.
Latinos en Optometry encourages eye care professionals to reinforce the importance of annual comprehensive eye exams, proactively discuss systemic health risks, and engage patients in culturally responsive conversations that strengthen understanding and adherence. “When prevention is paired with cultural awareness,” Dr. Shechtman added, “we strengthen adherence, reduce avoidable vision loss, and improve outcomes for patients facing disproportionate risk.”
The April blog is part of the association’s ongoing Cultural Responsiveness series, which explores how communication, representation, and equity influence patient care and community health outcomes. The full blog can be accessed at https://latinosenoptometry.org/when-gender-and-culture-intersect-eye-health-disparities-in-hispanic-women/