Millions risk poorer health outcomes by skipping routine sight test

National Eye Health Week 2024

New research launched to mark the start of National Eye Health Week (23-29 September) reveals a staggering 19 million Brits are putting their physical and mental health at risk by failing to have regular eye tests [1].

Routine eye tests are essential health checks for the prevention of poor health. In addition to identifying problems with eyesight they can also detect a range of other ailments including high blood pressure (hypertension), raised cholesterol, heart disease, brain tumours and risk of stroke.

Poor vision is linked to numerous chronic and life-limiting conditions [2]. A new study from Johns Hopkins University reveals up to one in five dementia cases are directly linked to eyesight issues [3].

Even a relatively minor reduction in vision (6/12 – half way down an optometrist’s letter chart) is associated with a significant reduction in quality of life and increased risk of depression (3xrisk), falls (double risk) and early death (double risk)[4].

David Cartwright, optometrist and chair of Eye Health UK urges everyone who hasn’t had an eye test in the last two years to book one and explains: “Sight-threatening eye disease and conditions like hypertension can present with no, or few, noticeable symptoms. If caught early though they can be treated, or successfully managed, before they become a problem.”

David continues: High-street optometrists play a crucial role in improving health opportunities for all. As well as caring for the nation’s eye health and preventing avoidable sight loss [5], optometrists can direct people to get the help they need for a wide-range of illnesses, including the 400,000 adults in the UK estimated to be living with undiagnosed heart failure and 88,000 people living with undetected brain tumours [6].”

Read Hugo’s story for a powerful account of how an eye examination led to the diagnosis and successful treatment of his brain tumour.

People from low-income households, men, and people from minority ethnic backgrounds were most likely to have skipped a recent eye test, whilst 2.5 million over 65s admit they haven’t had their eyes checked in the last two years, as recommended.

Fear of cost needn’t be a barrier to having an eye test. Sight tests are free on the NHS for more than 30 million Brits including children, over 60s and those on income-related benefits.

David Cartwright explains: “NHS-funded provision means eye care services are accessible for all. Free sight tests and optical vouchers are available for many, including those on low incomes and people at increased risk of poor eye health due to age or medical history. People unable to leave home unaided are entitled to free domiciliary (at home) eye tests; whilst local ICBs (Integrated Care Boards) or local NHS area teams commission translation and interpretation services ensuring a patient’s language or communication skills are not barriers to eye care.”

Eye Health UK’s research also highlights the impact poor eye health is having on our day-to-day lives. Around half (49%) of adults in the UK say that the quality of their vision affects their ability to do, or enjoy, daily activities like household chores, driving, reading and hobbies.

As well as having regular eye tests, once every two years, unless advised otherwise by your optometrist, there are a number of other ways we can protect, or improve, our sight.

Lifestyle habits have a significant impact on eye health regardless of genetic predisposition.  Your diet, weight, activity levels and alcohol consumption can all affect your eye health.

Protecting your eyes from the sun’s UV rays and not smoking will help keep your eyes and vision healthy.

Multiple studies also show spending two hours+ a day outdoors can reduce the risk of myopia (short-sightedness), even if there is a family history of the condition.

Explore the rest of the vision matters website for helpful advice and information on caring for your eyes.

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Footnotes

[1] OnePoll survey of 2,000 Adults representative of the UK population conducted 6th to 10th September 2024 on behalf of Eye Health UK to mark National Eye Health Week (23-29 September 2024). Population estimated using UK data correct as at Jan 2024. Total UK population aged 18+ = 56.3 million. 36% have not had an eye test in last two years, 4% can’t remember last time they had an eye test.
[2] Health problems with links to poor eye health include, but are not limited to: diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), stroke, cardiovascular disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
[3] https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology
[4] https://www.bmj.com/content/340/bmj.c1711
[5] Half of all sight loss is avoidable. Source: Deloitte Access Economics (2017) Incidence and risk of sight loss and blindness in the UK Royal National Institute of Blind People
[6] Source Heart Failure estimate = British Society for Heart Failure 2024. Source for Brain Tumour estimate The Brain Tumour Charity.

Published: 23 September 2024