New estimates from the British Journal of Ophthalmology indicate that the number of people living with glaucoma in the UK could rise to at least 1.6 million by 2060. This represents a significant increase from the current estimate of 1.1 million individuals affected by this leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. The anticipated rise is attributed to an ageing population and a growing proportion of higher-risk ethnically diverse groups.
As awareness of this condition grows, researchers are advocating for an expansion of eye health services and underscoring the importance of regular eye examinations.
Urgent Call for Regular Eye Checks
Professor Paul Foster, a researcher at the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and consultant ophthalmic surgeon at Moorfields Eye Hospital, emphasized in a recent statement that “glaucoma is a common cause of blindness, but it isn’t symptomatic until its later stages.” He pointed out that regular tests are crucial for early diagnosis. Previous studies have shown that nearly half of all glaucoma cases go undiagnosed, with this figure being even higher among certain ethnic minority groups prone to delays in diagnosis.
Late-stage diagnosis not only increases the risk of vision loss but also escalates the costs of care. Professor Foster noted that over 40% of glaucoma patients in the UK experience vision loss that could have been avoided with earlier diagnosis and timely treatments such as eye drops or surgical interventions.
Recognizing Symptoms of Glaucoma
Glaucoma often does not present symptoms initially, which is why routine eye tests are essential. According to the NHS, symptoms may emerge later and can include:
– Intense eye pain
– A red eye
– Tenderness around the eyes
– Seeing rainbow-colored circles around bright lights
– Blurred vision
– Nausea and vomiting
– Headaches
The NHS recommends that all individuals undergo eye tests every two years. Those at higher risk, such as individuals with a family history of glaucoma, may need to have their eyes examined more frequently.
As the UK braces for a rising number of glaucoma cases, the call to action for regular eye health checks becomes increasingly vital. Early detection could prevent significant vision loss and improve the quality of life for many individuals.
