Vision Express has highlighted a study which shows that Glaucoma could now be detected up to eight years before any sight loss is experienced.
The research, which coincides with World Glaucoma Week (March 6-12 2016), was published in the journal Ophthalmology said evidence of red flags to the condition could be spotted up to eight years before the patient experienced visual symptoms.
The multiple said the finding underlines the importance of having regular eye examinations so patients could undergo investigation with high tech equipment such as Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT).
Omar Hassan, head of professional services at Vision Express described the research as a landmark study because it provided proof of the eight year opportunity within which an eye test may detect signs of glaucoma, before the condition manifests itself as vision loss.
‘We know people can lose up to 40% of vision before they actually notice it, so this study backs up just how vital it is to have a routine eye test. Glaucoma has no symptoms in its early stages. Once it has taken hold, the damage is irreversible, but thankfully we can manage and treat it effectively if caught in time.’
Vision Express is taking its Vision Van, a vehicle equipped with eye testing technology, out on the road to reach those most at risk.
Glaucoma is the biggest cause of preventable sight loss in the UK with an estimated 600,000 sufferers of which only half have been diagnosed.
Free eye tests were offered from the Vision Van in Nottingham, Bristol, Truro, Reading and Birmingham during World Glaucoma Week.
