EYE care experts in Worcester are urging people to have regular eye tests to help protect them from glaucoma, as new data shows a third of referrals are now for those aged between 40 and 60 years old.
The latest data from Specsavers reveals there have been 30,000 referrals nationwide for glaucoma in people aged 40–60 years in the last year; accounting for nearly a third (30%) of all glaucoma referrals.
While glaucoma typically becomes more common with age, this Glaucoma Awareness Week Specsavers in Worcester and Glaucoma UK, are reminding people of all ages to have regular eye tests to help protect them from the disease, which is one of the leading causes of blindness in the world.
Dean Roberts, director at Specsavers in Worcester, said: ‘Glaucoma is a common eye condition where the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain, becomes damaged. It’s usually caused by fluid building up in the front part of the eye, which increases pressure inside the eye.
“Our data shows that glaucoma can affect people of all ages. Although most will not experience any symptoms, glaucoma can lead to loss of vision if it’s not detected and treated early.
“Vision lost to glaucoma cannot be recovered, but with early detection, careful monitoring and regular treatment, most people retain useful sight for life.”
