MP highlights challenges
Today in Parliament, John Baron MP hosted and spoke at an Eye Health reception, jointly organised by the International Glaucoma Association and the Optical Confederation. The event was held to coincide with National Glaucoma Awareness Week to help raise awareness of eye-health issues and the importance of regular eye tests. John is Co-Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Eye-Health and Visual Impairment (APPGVI).
John said:
“2 million people in the UK are at risk of losing their sight unnecessarily. A further 100 people begin to lose their sight every day – 50% of which is avoidable through earlier diagnosis and better treatment. This figure is set to double by 2050 due to an ageing population, glaucoma and diabetes. Action is needed.”
“The All Party Group urged the Government to include eye health as a public health priority. Through our combined efforts, we have won the day and this is now taking place – but there is still work to do.”
“We should not forget that regular eye tests are very important so that eye conditions are detected and treated early. It is imperative that this important public health message is taken seriously by the NHS, national and local government, and patients.”
Ends
Word Count: 214
Date: 11th June 2012
Notes to Editors
The attached photograph shows(from left to right) David Wright – Chief Executive of the International Glaucoma Association; Don Grocott – inaugural Chair of the Optical Confederation; John Baron MP; Katrina Venerus – Director of Operations and Commissioning for the Local Optical Committee Support Unit; Keith Barton – Consultant Ophthalmologist and Glaucoma Specialist at Moorfields Eye Hospital
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