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Through a recent survey, results show that people in the UK are still failing to adequately look after their eyes and vision. Although the recommendation is that everyone have their sight tested every year and at the very least every two, many of us are simply ignoring that advice and putting ourselves at risk of preventable conditions that can severely affect our ability to see.
This week sees National Glaucoma Awareness Week spring into life, as the IGA prepares to try and highlight and raise awareness of the disease, its symptoms (although sorely lacking in early cases) and the damaging effects it can cause to vision and the loss of it. The International Glaucoma Association has launched the Action For Sight campaign to try and convey its message via advertising mediums in the coming days. Its major concern is not only the numbers of people getting eye tests in general, but specifically those over the age of 40.
The Fly Research survey of 2014 showed a staggering 10% of adults over 40 years of age have not had an eye test in not just the last two years, nor three but FIVE years. Over half a decade has passed for a large proportion of the population since they last visited their local optician. In fact, of the participants, only around 50% actually adhered to recommended practice when it comes to regular check ups. With glaucoma being one of the leading causes of preventable blindness, without necessarily showing itself via early symptoms, it is clear why the IGA are using this week to try and promote the necessity to take advantage of free eye exams at least every two years, so that those affected but unaware, can receive treatment before more advanced and damaging symptoms become apparent.
It is currently estimated, that as many as 50% of people suffering with glaucoma in the UK do not yet realise that they have the condition.