Over half of the new cases of visual impairment in London last year could have been avoided, according to startling new statistics. The Royal National Institute for Blind People is calling for more investment in eye health services and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to combat needless sight deterioration.
According to data analysed by the Office for Health and Disparity, based on figures from Moorfields Eye Hospital, there were 2,742 Certificates of Visual Impairment (CVI) issued in London for 2022-23.
The leading cause was age-related macular degeneration, which affects central vision and accounted for 837 cases. Glaucoma, another major culprit, led to 546 cases, while diabetic eye disease resulted in 187 cases.
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As well as vision loss, glaucoma can cause intense eye pain, nausea and headaches in sufferers, while diabetic eye disease can cause eyesight to deteriorate gradually or suddenly.
These conditions are all known to be preventable, highlighting a significant area for potential intervention. In total, preventable causes were responsible for 57% of the new visual impairment cases in London.
Obtaining a CVI from a consultant ophthalmologist is the first step towards registration with local authorities and access to support services. However, since the certificate is not mandatory, the actual figures of visual impairment might be even higher than reported.
Looking at the broader picture across England, 69% of new CVIs were attributed to the same trio of preventable eye conditions: age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic eye disease.
The RNIB has warned that the number of individuals with significant sight loss impacting their daily lives is expected to surge by a third by 2030, driven largely by these avoidable eye problems.
Louise Gow, the RNIB’s clinical lead for eye health, optometry and low vision services, emphasised that preventing unnecessary sight loss hinges on “essential” early diagnosis and treatments.
“It is important to ensure everyone has access to regular routine eye checks, and for barriers to be removed to those who may face added challenges in getting their sight checked,” she said.
She further stated: “To help slow the increase rate, we also need to invest now in a national eye care strategy for England which would put more emphasis on eye health and reduce NHS delays and streamline processes so people get quicker assessment and treatment.”
A spokesperson from the Department of Health and Social Care commented: “No one should have to suffer avoidable sight loss. This is why we are taking action to tackle some of the main causes of sight loss including smoking and obesity.”
They revealed that over £500 million is invested annually on providing free NHS sight tests, that can detect sight threatening conditions early.
“The numbers of adults between 16-64 becoming visually impaired from diabetic retinopathy has fallen by almost a fifth since 2010, because of the diabetic screening programme and a range of new treatments has improved the prognosis of those diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration,” they added.
For those dealing with sight loss, the RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 can provide assistance, advice, and support.
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