Approximately ten percent of all men are affected with this type of color blindness, while women are rarely affected with this disorder. An extremely rare form is total color blindness, in which a person is incapable of perceiving any color at all. The person usually perceives shades of gray all the time. The amount of this light-sensitive substance on the retina determines the severity of the color blindness. This condition is generally present at birth and continues throughout life.
Color blindness is caused by a defective color gene carried by the mother.
There is no cure for color blindness, but the condition rarely affects everyday life and is not a risk to health. For more information regarding color blindness, contact an optometrist or ophthalmologist in your area. The Knoxville News-Sentinel strictly as a service to the general community. The information is not intended to replace professional advice. We encourage you to consult your own physician regarding medical treatment.