Why are cases of sight loss on the increase?

There are many factors that contribute to the growing sight-loss numbers. One major factor is the rise in life expectancy. Sight loss can affect all ages, but as we get older, we become increasingly more likely to experience sight loss. One in every five individuals over the age of 75 experiences sight loss, and a staggering one in every two people over the age of 90 is living with sight loss. The UK population is living for longer, with an average life expectancy of 79.4 years for males and 83.1 years for females, which contributes to the rising figures.

While the rise of life expectancy is a non-preventable cause of sight loss rates increasing, there are also lifestyle habits and health problems which contribute to the increase in sight loss rates, but which are preventable. Diabetes and obesity are strongly linked to sight loss – the rates of which are both increasing. Diabetes and obesity create heightened risk factors for a range of conditions, including glaucoma, cataracts and diabetic retinopathy. 

Socioeconomic factors also play into the increasing sight loss numbers. People living in socioeconomic deprivation are less likely to access primary eye care services, which can lead to eye conditions going undetected, causing avoidable sight loss. The UK has seen a decade of welfare and public service cuts pushing people across the UK further into hardship. In addition, almost 700,000 more people in the UK have been plunged into poverty as a result of the Covid economic crisis. Britain potentially faces years of economic upheaval in its wake from Covid-19, which could also contribute to increasing sight loss numbers.

So what can be done about the increasing numbers of people suffering from visual impairment? Early detection and treatment is vital: an estimated 50% of sight loss cases could be prevented, if detected and treated in time. So, one million people in the UK could potentially be living with better eyesight. However, a key factor in the rise of sight loss is a lack of awareness. With regular eye tests every two years, conditions can be treated before damage becomes irreversible – but many people do not know they should have regular eye check-ups. 

Eye Heroes’ mission is to spread the word of the importance of eye health – and regular eye tests – through the education and empowerment of children. By educating children with the knowledge to spread this message to their friends and families, Eye Heroes is helping to reverse the UK trend and contribute to lowering preventable sight loss.

~ Daisy West, Communications Volunteer