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Strong Local Voice, Strong Local ChampionAnnette Brooke, Lib Dem MP for Mid Dorset & North Poole |
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Annette Brooke MP urges local residents to look after their sight
October 8, 2012 4:47 PM
Annette meeting with members of the RNIB.
Local MP Annette Brooke has met with the Royal National Institute of Blind to hear first hand about common sight conditions and find out how she can work with RNIB to reduce the risk of sight loss for people in Mid Dorset and North Poole.
Using specially designed simulations to illustrate common sight threatening eye conditions, RNIB highlighted the importance of regular eye tests, the need to detect and treat conditions that lead to sight loss at an early stage and how local authorities can make eye health a priority.
Currently there are almost two million people with sight loss in the UK and it is predicted that by 2050 the number of people with sight loss in the UK will double to nearly four million. That could mean around 6,000 people in the Mid Dorset and North Poole constituency alone. However, up to 50 per cent of sight loss could be avoided if detected and treated early enough, so it is vital that eye health is made a priority.
Annette Brooke MP said: "Many people take their sight for granted, and assume that sight loss is an inevitable consequence of ageing when it's not. In fact, up to 50 per cent of sight loss could be avoided and there are things people can do to protect their vision. I urge people to have eye checks at least every two years, it is essential in detecting sight conditions at a stage at which they could be treated."
For more information about the RNIB pod tour visit www.rnib.org.uk/campaigns
RNIB tips for healthy eyes
- Have a regular eye test at an optometrist's. Early detection means more chance of successful treatment.
- Don't smoke. Smoking greatly increases the risk of certain eye conditions.
- Eat healthily and keep trim. Include lots of green leafy vegetables in your diet to maintain eye health. Obesity is linked to diabetes and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
- Always wear sunglasses with a UV filter.
- Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris and fine particles.