“Primary eye care providers are often the first to identify the earliest clinical signs of disease and make connections for future risk through a careful physical exam and history,” explains Jessica Steen, OD, FAAO, assistant professor at the Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. “The exam and history can also uncover the need to address modifiable risk factors for disease.” As February is AMD Awareness Month, ODs talk about how to discuss modifiable risk factors: smoking status, obesity, nutritional habits, physical activity, and more.

PINPOINT RESPONSIBILITY, BUT DON’T DISCOURAGE

“I always let patients know that the choices they make can influence the likelihood of them losing vision to diseases like AMD,” says Mark Roark, OD, FAAO, of Allisonville Eye Care Center, in Fishers, Ind.

Sherrol Reynolds, OD, an associate professor at the Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry, says to encourage the “right” choices by making sure “the patient understands that taking even small steps can have a significant impact.”

USE VISION LOSS TO NIP IT IN THE BUTT

Talking to patients about smoking cessation requires a nuanced conversation, notes Dr. Steen.

Dr. Reynolds agrees, adding that patients should be made aware that smoking is the No. 1 risk factor for progression of AMD and resulting vision loss.

AVOID TRIGGER WORDS

“Try to avoid words, such as ‘weight loss,’ ‘diet,’ and ‘exercise,’ that could trigger negative feelings,” says Dr. Steen. “Instead, use ‘nutrition’ and ‘movement.’

BRING BACKUP

“I like to introduce evidence-based medicine when talking to patients about modifiable risk factors,” says Dr. Reynolds. “Studies or statistics can underscore what you’ve said in an objective way.” OM