We recently heard about the IGA's release of the Eyeway code, an awareness pamphlet regarding glaucoma, the risks, and the dangers drivers face if they have the condition. A new survey, which goes hand in hand with this awareness drive, suggests that getting this information into the hands of motorists is an important measure as many of the people surveyed were unaware of the risks or what the disease actually affects an how it can cause problems.
The eye disease, which primarily affects patients in the over 40 category, and what the public perception of it is was the source material for a research project conducted for the IGA. The general feedback was that many were unaware 'the disease affects peripheral vision,' 'how it is treated or diagnosed,' with many assuming that they would know if they had it and would seek treatment or help upon self diagnosis. Glaucoma is a treatable disease, but it is estimated that drivers in their thousands in the UK are undiagnosed, untreated and thus putting themselves and the public at risk because of this eye condition. As with many diseases, the sooner treated, the better. So the recommendation to motorists is to get regular eye checks, at least once every two years, at your opticians before symptoms of severe deterioration become apparent.
Main statistics recorded from Internation Glaucoma Association survey conducted by ICM:
- 1,000 drivers over the age of 40 (most at risk age group) surveyed
- 30% unaware how to diagnose condition
- 14% believe condition can be self diagnosed
- 96% aware that glaucoma affects the eyes
- 52% unaware condition affects peripheral vision primarily
- 30% fail to have their eyes checked once in every two years
Bus In Motion by Petr Kratochvil (Image)