Chris Bennett: Seeing the light on glaucoma treatment

Growing older surrounded by elderly neighbours provides an interesting insight into the everyday practicalities of ageing and health.

Last week’s announcement of research showing that selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) treatment for glaucoma was more effective, and cheaper, than eye drops will be welcomed by clinicians. Given the potential to reduce the one million outpatient appointments attended for glaucoma and with savings to the NHS of £1.5m, it will be welcomed by hospitals too.

One group that will greet the latest findings and the hoped for change in clinical practice most heartily is the 600,000 glaucoma sufferers who face the prospect of daily drops.