Almost 10 million Brits are at risk of losing their sight because they “can’t be bothered” to go for an eye examination, a new report reveals.

The Vision of Britain report, commissioned by private eye hospital company Optegra, also found that 50% of patients presenting for a sight test for the first time require vision correction, while 15% had an eye condition that had been diagnosed too late.

Suzanne Wadsworth, director and clinical lead at BBR Optometry, says: “The figures revealed in this survey really are shocking and show there is still much work to be done in ensuring people take their eye health as seriously as their overall well-being.

“Regular eye examinations are not simply about needing a new prescription but are also vital for ensuring good eye health.

“Here at BBR Optometry, we are proud to offer the latest technology to ensure early diagnosis of a range of conditions including macular degeneration and glaucoma which can lead to sight loss if not treated early enough.

“We have an Optical Coherence Tomography scanner that creates a sort of optical ultrasound three dimensional image of the inside of the eye meaning we can actually see below the surface of the retina and view the microscopic layers beneath.

“This is of profound importance in determining the precise diagnosis of visual problems and in helping us guide patients on the treatment options possible,” she added.

Of the 2,000 members of the public questioned for the survey, one in 10 required spectacles or treatment, despite believing their sight was "fine." Furthermore, one in four said they believed wearing spectacles would make their vision worse.

However, despite avoiding having an eye examination, 82% of those questioned said they wanted 20:20 vision with 60% naming their vision as the sense they value the most.

Suzanne said: “The fact so many people say they value their vision as the most important of their senses makes the fact they refuse to have eye examinations even more alarming.

“Everyone should ensure they have eye examinations as frequently as recommended by their optician. I’m sure these people wouldn’t hesitate to visit their doctor and eye health is just as important,” she added.

If you are due an eye examination please call us now on 01432 265030 to make an appointment.   

You can read the full Vision of Britain report by visiting the Optegra website.