'Don't delay - check your eyes today' - urges Rowen

Rochdale MP Paul Rowen is urging local residents to go along and get their eyes tested after it was recently revealed that many serious conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy are not being detected early enough.

Mr Rowen met up with the Eye Health Alliance recently to learn more about the importance of eye health and regular sight tests for people from all aspects of the local community.

The results of a recent study indicate that partial sight and blindness places a large economic cost on the UK, totalling £22 billion in 2008, much of which could have been avoided with an increase in take-up of regular sight tests. Additionally, these costs are expected to grow to £7.88 billion by 2013, partly as a result of an ageing population and an increase in the number of people living with long term conditions. Therefore, the early detection of conditions through screening and testing, such as eye examinations, will play an increasing role in health services across the nation.

Eye tests are readily available on the high street. Many groups of people are entitled to a free NHS Sight Test such as all children under 16, those aged 60 and over and those on low incomes.

Paul Rowen said: "Many people just don't look after their eyes - I was shocked to learn that 50% of blindness in the UK could have been prevented through regular sight tests and screening programmes. Even if you think your vision is fine it is still important to check your eyes are healthy.

Mr Rowen added: "It's vital that people have their eyes tested at least once every two years. Eye health and regular sight tests are important for everyone - for children to develop socially and academically at school, for working age adults to go about their lives safely, and for older people to live independently and reduce the risk of accidents such as falls."