New study reveals over one million UK adults living with glaucoma
More than one million adults aged 40 and over in the UK are living with glaucoma, half of them without knowing.
A new study, published today, has revealed a significant increase in current cases and predicts a steep rise in cases over the coming decades.
Joanne Creighton, CEO of Glaucoma UK, said, “We had estimated that 700,000 people in the UK are currently living with glaucoma, with 50% being unaware.”
“This new study reveals a reality where over one million adults aged 40 and above are currently living with the condition – many of them without knowing, and potentially losing sight which they will never be able to recover.”
The landmark study – carried out by academics and clinicians at Moorfields Eye Hospital and University College London – also predicts a 60% increase in glaucoma in the next 35 years, rising from over one million to 1.61 million people by 2060.
“This is a demographic time bomb” Joanne continued, “and we need serious planning and action now to prepare to diagnose, treat, and support these future patients.”
Joanna Hodgkinson, Head of Research at Glaucoma UK, said, “The headlines generated by this study can seem alarming – but we believe there is enormous potential here, and it can in fact help us to improve outcomes for people living with glaucoma.
“Glaucoma sight loss is largely preventable, but only if people can be seen within an already overstretched system. More accurate estimates of the prevalence of glaucoma will help the NHS to plan to meet this growing population’s needs, ensuring we have the necessary capacity, workforce and infrastructure.”
Glaucoma UK is calling on the NHS to create a National Eye Strategy to meet the challenge posed by rising demand and an ageing population.
Regular eye tests are crucial for everyone
As the only UK charity solely dedicated to supporting people living with glaucoma, we are urging everyone to protect their sight by attending regular eye tests.
The findings in this report highlight why routine eye tests are more important than ever before. Glaucoma is often symptomless in its early stages, which means an eye test can be the only way to detect the disease.
Delayed or late diagnosis can result in irreversible sight loss.
Early detection and treatment through routine eye tests is the best way to save your sight, and manage the condition to be able to live well with glaucoma.
For more information on your individual risk of glaucoma, see our quick and easy online risk quiz here.