Are we leaving glaucoma diagnosis too late?

Over half (54%) of High Street optometrists have seen a patient in the last 12 months who has permanently lost sight due to late detection or delays in treatment for glaucoma, according to new research from the Association of Optometrists (AOP).

The eye experts are calling for an ‘overhaul of health’ in England to prevent further failures and ensure High Street optometrists can protect the public by detecting, monitoring and treating glaucoma, easing the burden on hospital eye services.

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible sight loss worldwide, and affects around 700,000 people in the UK. Global studies show that almost half of all cases are undiagnosed, with some patients losing up to 70% of their vision before they realise there’s a problem.

Aston spoke to Adam Sampson, chief executive at AOP (Association Of Optometrists).