World Sight Day is celebrated annually on the second Thursday of October and is a time for us to acknowledge the wonder that is eyesight. Did you know that 90% of eye conditions are preventable? This is why we are committed to early detection and prevention.
Love your eyes pledge
This World Sight Day the theme is “love your eyes.” We are making our pledge by committing to the four Ps:
Prevent
Preserve
Protect
Prioritse
When was the last time you had your eyes checked? Make the pledge, visit your optometrist or ophthalmologist and get your eyes tested. Make your pledge today.
Share your pledge with us on social media by tagging us:
Have you missed an appointment at the Eye and Ear? Contact Patient Services and Access on 03 9929 8500 or outpatients@eyeandear.org.au to discuss.
World Sight Day 2021 | Eye and Ear
Common eye conditions and resources:
Below is a hub of information on common, preventable, and treatable eye conditions.
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the name of a group of eye diseases that slowly damage the optic nerve causing irreversible vision loss. It is commonly known as the ‘silent thief of sight’ as it develops gradually and many do not realise they have it until it is too late. Early detection of glaucoma is vital, which is why regular eye examinations with your optometrist or ophthalmologist are the most important thing you can do to preserve your eye health.
Top three facts about glaucoma:
2 in 100 Australians will develop glaucoma in their lifetime
50% of people with glaucoma don’t know they have it
You’re 10 x more likely to develop glaucoma if a direct relative has it
A cataract is a clouding of the lens inside the eye which may result in poor vision, and are common in people over the age of 40. To assist with the prevention and/or delay of cataracts, wear sunglasses and a hat when outdoors, eat a balanced diet, avoid smoking, and get your eyes checked regularly.
If you have cataracts they can be treated with surgery. Did you know that cataract surgery is the most common and one of the safest surgeries in the world? Watch below as Dr Anton Van Heerdan explains the process of cataract surgery at the Eye and Ear.
Cararact Information
Age-related macular degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that affects central vision and is common in people over 40. We use our central vision to see objects clearly and it assists us in completing tasks such as reading and driving. Similar to glaucoma, the early stages of AMD can go unnoticed, and catching it early is vital. There is currently a range of treatment options to slow down the progression of AMD, however, this depends on the stage and type of AMD.
If you notice any changes to your vision including, but not limited to, distorted vision and dark spots, it is important to get your eyes checked as soon as possible.
World Sight Day is celebrated annually on the second Thursday of October and is a time for us to acknowledge the wonder that is eyesight. Did you know that 90% of eye conditions are preventable? This is why we are committed to early detection and prevention.
