Blog post
The Rise in Eye Disease: Why Regular Eye Tests Matter More Than Ever
Matthew Burford BSc(Hons) Optometry MCOptom - Domiciliary Optician and Professional Services Manager at OutsideClinic
3/4 minutes reading time
You may not notice your eyesight changing from day to day, but across the UK, vision problems are becoming more common - and more serious.
According to data from The Royal College of Ophthalmologists, the number of people affected by major eye conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma and cataracts is expected to rise sharply over the next decade.
The good news? Regular eye tests remain one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your vision and prevent avoidable sight loss.
A clearer picture of the UK’s eye health
The UK Eye Care Data Hub, launched by The Royal College of Ophthalmologists, has revealed a worrying trend:
- AMD cases are predicted to rise by 24% in the next 10 years (>2035).
- Glaucoma could increase by around 16%.
- Cataracts are expected to grow by 17%.
These conditions are already some of the most common causes of sight loss in later life – and as our population ages, demand for eye care will continue to rise.
While more eye-care professionals are being trained, the report warns that the system will be under pressure. This makes early detection more important than ever.
Why these conditions matter
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
AMD affects the central part of your vision, making it harder to read, drive or recognise faces. It’s caused by damage to the macula – a tiny area at the back f the eye that helps you see fine detail.
Early signs can be subtle, which is why regular eye tests are key to catching it before vision loss progresses.
Glaucoma
Often called the ‘silent thief of sight’, glaucoma damages the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye.
It develops slowly and painlessly – meaning many people don’t realise they have it until permanent vision loss occurs. Regular tests can measure eye pressures and detect physiological changes to help protect your sight.
Cataracts
Cataracts cause the clear lens of your eye to become cloudy, leading to blurred or misty vision. They’re extremely common with age and can usually be treated successfully with straightforward surgery.
Why early detection makes all the difference
Most serious eye diseases develop gradually and without pain, so people often put off their eye test until symptoms become obvious. By that point, treatment options may be limited.
Having regular eye tests – at least every two years, or more often if advised – allows optometrists to spot the earliest signs of change. Many conditions can be slowed, treated or even prevented entirely when caught early.
It’s also important for those who care for older relatives or loved ones to encourage them to keep up with routine checks, especially if getting out is difficult. Home eye tests, funded by the NHS for eligible patients, make this easier than ever.
Looking ahead with confidence
The rise in eye disease may sound concerning, but it also highlights something positive: with awareness, early testing and professional care, most sight loss is preventable.
By booking an eye test – for yourself or someone you care for – you’re taking an important step in protecting yours, and your loved ones, vision for years to come.
