Less than half surveyed have undergone an eye pressure check. This proportion did not increase in the older age groups, even though the risk of glaucoma increases with age. This was in contrast to blood pressure, where more respondents discussed blood pressure with their physician in the older age groups.
"Accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment of glaucoma can prevent damage to the optic nerve and preserve healthy vision, which is why check-ups are so important," said Professor Roger Hitchings, Professor of Ophthalmology, University College London and Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon, Moorfields Eye Hospital. "Everyone should proactively assess their risk of glaucoma with an eye specialist. A complete eye exam for glaucoma will include an eye pressure check, an optic nerve assessment and visual field examination."
All Eyes on Glaucoma Resources
One of the key components of the All Eyes on Glaucoma initiative is a new, informative website, http://www.AllEyesOnGlaucoma.com, where people can learn the proper steps to protect their vision, including the completion of an "Am I At Risk?" questionnaire and download tools including the "Conversation Starter" which can be taken to their eye specialist. Visitors will also be directed to local glaucoma organizations in their area for questions and support services.
About the International Survey
A multi-country survey of individuals aged 40 and above was conducted by the GfK Group. The survey included 4,352 people (2,020 males and 2,332 females) in seven countries including Australia, Brazil, Germany, Japan, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Notes to Editors:
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseas
|SOURCE All Eyes on Glaucoma(TM) Campaign|
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