Several doctors from Carolina Eye Associates, of Pinehurst, presented programs at local civic clubs over the past month.

Anna Fakadej, M.D., gave a presentation on cataracts at the Pinehurst Rotary Club meeting at the Pine Crest Inn. Fakadej joined Carolina Eye Associates of Pinehurst in 1997, has spoken nationally about cataract surgery and is considered one of "America's Top Ophthalmologists" by the Consumers' Research Council of America. Fakadej, a cataract and aesthetic laser specialist, presented the latest advances in cataract surgery and the best treatments for this common eye condition. Club members learned about the anatomy of the eye, the different types of cataracts and how a cloudy lens affects vision.

Tarra Millender, M.D., gave a presentation on glaucoma at the Kiwanis Club of the Sandhills at National. Millender joined Carolina Eye Associates in 2009 and received her medical degree from the Duke University School of Medicine, Durham. Millender is a glaucoma and cataract specialist who spoke on the advances of how to stop the progression of glaucoma.

Neil Griffin, M.D., gave a presentation on vision correction surgery for nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism with procedures that include blade-free Lasik, the implantable contact lens and the multi-distance premium lens implants at the Southern Pines Rotary Club meeting at Mid Pines in Southern Pines.

Griffin joined the Carolina Eye Staff in 1994. His specialty includes cataract surgery and the treatment and surgery of diseases and disorders affecting the cornea.

Greg Mincey, M.D., gave a presentation on macular degeneration at the Sandhills Rotary meeting at the Carolina Hotel. Mincey joined Carolina Eye in 1983. His specialty covers the treatment and surgery of diseases and disorders affecting the back of the eye, including diabetic eye disorders, macular degeneration, retinal detachments and trauma to the eye.

Mincey shared with the group that macular degeneration is the leading cause to blindness in the United States. He also shared how Carolina Eye Associates participates in research and studies for new ophthalmic surgical procedures, equipment, medications and products with the goal of approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.