The importance of regular eye screening was highlighted at a “protect your sight day” recently at Leinster House. The screening found that 15% of those tested showed signs of being at risk for glaucoma, or other eye conditions, such as retinal degeneration.

The screening was conducted by Ophthalmologists and Optometrists and was offered to members of the Oireachtas and to Leinster House employees. A total of 137 people were screened on the day.

The eye testing was organised by NCBI (National Council for the Blind of Ireland), the Irish College of Ophthalmologists, Association of Optometrists Ireland, and supported by Pfizer Healthcare Ireland to mark World Glaucoma Week.

Leading Ophthalmologist and glaucoma specialist, Prof Colm O’Brien, of the Mater University Hospital, who took part in the screening said that there was a surprisingly high level of risk factors for glaucoma and other eye conditions detected during the screening day at Leinster House.

He said that glaucoma is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in Ireland – and early detection through regular screening is vitally important.

“There are no symptoms in its early stages. In fact, up to 40% of the optic nerve can be irreversibly damaged before you notice a change in your vision. 50% of people in the developed world do not know they have glaucoma and are not receiving any treatment.

“However, a thorough eye exam can detect the signs of glaucoma before you realise there is a problem, and although it cannot be cured, the progression of the disease can be controlled and further damage prevented if glaucoma is diagnosed and treated early enough.”

NCBI Chief Executive Des Kenny thanked the members of the Oireachtas and Leinster House staff for helping to highlight the need for people to have regular eye exams.

“NCBI is very pleased that politicians and staff at Leinster House are taking a lead in having their eyes examined and increasing their awareness of conditions such as glaucoma. An eye exam is a vital health check for your eyes but people who do not wear glasses often neglect their eyesight until it is too late.

“There is a steady increase in the number of people using NCBI’s services as a result of treatable conditions like glaucoma but, by promoting eye health and prevention measures we hope to see these figures decreasing over the next few years.”

Anyone can develop glaucoma but some are more at risk than others. Everyone should have a thorough eye exam every four years but some people may need to be seen more frequently. Those at greater risk of glaucoma include people:

• Over the age of 40
• With a parent, child or sibling with glaucoma
• Who are short sighted
• Who are Afro-Caribbean or Asian
• Who have any other medical conditions, such as diabetes
• Have had past eye injuries.

Further Information

Ronan Cavanagh, Montague Communications: 01 830 3116 or 086 317 9731.