OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

How can red-green colour blindness be reduced?

1. By taking vitamin supplements

2. Through surgery

3. Using tinted lenses to help see colours normally

4. There is a complete cure available

The correct answer is: Using tinted lenses to help see colours normally

Using tinted lenses to help see colours normally is a practical approach to reducing the impact of red-green colour blindness. This condition, often caused by genetic factors affecting the cone cells in the retina, impairs the ability to distinguish between certain colours. Tinted lenses can enhance contrast and help individuals differentiate between red and green hues more effectively. They do not cure the condition, as the underlying genetic factors remain, but they significantly assist those affected in navigating a colour-centric world. In contrast, while vitamin supplements may support overall eye health, they do not directly address the specific issue of colour blindness. Surgery is not a viable solution for this type of genetic condition, as it does not involve an anatomical problem that can be corrected. Lastly, there is currently no complete cure for red-green colour blindness, as it is not a condition that can be resolved through medical or surgical intervention.