20 March 2021

Irish College of Ophthalmologists promotes importance of routine sight tests

To mark World Glaucoma Week, with the theme ‘The world is bright, save your sight’. to help raise awareness of the importance of early intervention, the Irish College of Ophthalmologists (ICO) said “regular eye tests are the only way” to detect ‘symptomless’ glaucoma in early stages.

Ms. Aoife Doyle, a Dublin based eye surgeon and glaucoma specialist, said “The importance of having a regular routine eye exam to help prevent avoidable glaucoma-related vision loss cannot be over-emphasised.” Adding that optometrists can pick up early signs of glaucoma and refer to ophthalmology colleagues for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

Garvan Mulligan, FODO Ireland Chair and optometrist, said “The College is right to raise awareness about the importance of regular eye examinations. Optometrists, as primary eye care professionals, are best placed to detect early signs of glaucoma and arrange referral to ophthalmology for timely diagnosis and treatment.” He added “Opticians are open and providing care in a COVID secure way so people should not delay essential eye care. Contact your eye care provider today for advice and support”.