Dry eye diagnoses doubles

Data released by Théa UK has found the number of people diagnosed with dry eye disease has doubled in the past year to 34%.

The company said its Keep a Look Out for Your Eyes survey of 2,000 people in the UK revealed eye care was being neglected, despite an increase in diagnoses.

Théa found 43% of people who live with the condition said they have not changed their lifestyle and 22% did not use the recommended eye drops following diagnosis.

Survey respondents said sight was their most important sense but 36% admitted they had not been for a sight test within the past two years. The survey also revealed patients had cancelled or postponed appointments to save money.