According to a Lighthouse International survey, 82 percent of Americans fear losing their vision, yet 86 percent of this subset have — or are at risk for — an eye disease, and still do not get an annual eye exam.

While following up yearly with your doctor is the No. 1 way to detect, prevent and treat any eye issues, there are many other ways you can help protect your sight, as well.

1. Don’t forget the sunglasses. Sunglasses aren’t just about fashion — the right pair will protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays, too much of which can increase the likelihood of you getting cataracts and macular degeneration.

2. Take a screen break.Our days are filled with screen time — from computers to phones to iPads to television — and guess what? It’s not good for our eyes. Staring at a screen for too long can lead to eyestrain, blurry vision, trouble focusing on distance, headaches, and neck, back and shoulder pain. To help, rest your eyes every 20 minutes by looking 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

3. Eat your greens.Carrots are great, sure, but loading up on leafy greens packed with lutein and zeaxanthin will also help lower your risk for macular degeneration and cataracts.

4. Consider supplements. While the best sources of omega-3 fat DHA (which experts believe may help protect our eyes) can be found in fish like wild Alaskan salmon, mackerel and herring, if you’re not big into fish, consider a fish oil supplement to stock up on the all-important fatty acid. (Remember, always discuss with your doctor before taking on any new vitamin or supplement regiment.)

5. Stop smoking. Here’s the thing about smoking: it’s not good for any part of your body — your eyes included. Smoking has been shown to lead to cataracts, optic nerve damage and macular degeneration, among other things.

The recommendations above — along with a yearly visit to your eye doctor — should keep those eyes of yours healthy for many, many years to come.