A new study has revealed that the number of people living with glaucoma in the UK is set to rise dramatically over the next few decades. Researchers from UCL and Moorfields Eye Hospital estimate that cases of this potentially sight-threatening condition will increase by 60%, from around 1.1 million currently to 1.6 million by the year 2060.
The study, published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology, highlights the critical importance of regular eye examinations and early detection of glaucoma. Denise Voon, a clinical adviser at The College of Optometrists, explains that glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that can damage the optic nerve due to increased fluid pressure within the eye. If left untreated, it can lead to irreversible vision loss.
There are two main types of glaucoma – chronic glaucoma, which develops slowly, and acute glaucoma, which is caused by a rapid increase in eye pressure. Certain groups are at higher risk, including those over 40, individuals with a family history of the condition, people of African or Caribbean descent, and those with short-sightedness or diabetes.
While acute glaucoma typically presents with obvious symptoms such as eye pain, blurred vision, and seeing halos around lights, chronic glaucoma often has no early warning signs. Voon emphasises that the only way to detect chronic glaucoma in its early stages is through regular eye examinations by an optometrist.
Optometrists use various tests to diagnose glaucoma, including measuring intraocular pressure, examining the optic nerve, and assessing peripheral vision. Treatment usually begins with eye drops to lower the pressure, but more advanced cases may require surgery or laser therapy.
Unfortunately, there are currently no known preventative measures for glaucoma. Voon advises that the best approach is to have regular eye checks, as early detection and treatment are crucial to preventing vision loss from this condition.
