EYE TESTS ARE ESSENTIAL
June 3, 2010 12:00 AM
Originally published by Fiona Hall MEP
Originally published by Fiona Hall MEP
Ahead of the UK's Glaucoma Awareness Week (7-13 June), North East Liberal Democrat MEP Fiona Hall has signed a written declaration in the European Parliament to raise awareness of the condition that affects over 9 million people in the EU.
Glaucoma is the name given to a group of eye conditions that damage the eye's optic nerve, causing irreversible visual loss and eventually blindness. According to the International Glaucoma Association it is the most common eye disorder, with an estimated 500,000 people in the UK suffering from the condition.
Fiona, who joined other MEPs urging the European Commission to support screening programmes, promote prevention and stimulate European research, said:
"Glaucoma doesn't always lead to blindness, but half of sufferers remain undiagnosed as symptoms appear late. This is devastating, as glaucoma is much easier to treat at its early stage. Those 50% undiagnosed are not aware that they are slowly losing their sight.
"I fully support this week's Glaucoma Awareness campaign in the UK which is encouraging people to go out and get their eyesight tested."
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