Riverside, California (NAPSI) - The ability to see clearly and comfortably is key to enjoying life’s everyday moments and all the sights around you. And no matter what your interests are, making sure your eyes are at their best through proper eye care and eyewear can enhance all your experiences.

GRAMMY^® Award−winning music artist and Transitions® adaptive lenses™ wearer Darius Rucker knows just how important it is to take care of his eyes, as vision is such a big part of his career and personal life.

“The ability to see clearly is such a big part of playing music and how I connect with my family, friends and fans,” said Rucker. “I’ve worn Transitions lenses for years. In fact, my eye doctor recommended them to me the first time my annual exam revealed that my vision wasn’t perfect. These lenses really enhance my vision and allow me to see my best in all light conditions.”

However, many people may not realize just how important it is to take care of their eyes not only to maintain visual health, but for their overall health as well. And certain groups, including African-Americans, may not realize that their ethnicity puts them at higher risk for some vision and health-related issues. In fact, according to a recent study by Transitions Optical, 66 percent of African-Americans were unaware that their ethnicity puts them at a heightened risk for certain eye conditions. Despite this, just 37 percent of African-American respondents had received an eye exam in the past year, according to the same study.

Research shows that African-Americans are 1.5 times more likely to develop cataract and four times more likely to suffer glaucoma-related blindness than the general population. In terms of overall health, African-Americans are at a higher risk for diabetes and hypertension-both of which are conditions that can be detected through eye exams, but that can also lead to serious vision problems.

“Whether I’m performing outside during the day, recording in a studio or spending time with my family at home, Transitions lenses allow me to see clearly,” said Rucker. “I strongly encourage others to make eye health a priority and to ask their doctor about Transitions lenses.”

To learn more about how vision impacts Darius Rucker’s life and find out which Transitions adaptive lenses are right for you, visit www.transitions.com and http://en-us.transitions.com/darius-rucker-talk-about-transitions-lenses/.