Thursday 8 October is World Sight Day, and Vision 2020 Australia is calling on Australians to not lose sight of their vision in 2020.
With around 90% of blindness and vision impairment preventable or treatable if detected early enough, now is the perfect time for to prioritise about your eye health – even during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Vision 2020 Australia is also reminding all Australians with an existing eye condition that it’s important for them to continue their treatment.
Eye tests can be arranged directly through an optometrist, without the need for a referral, and are usually covered by Medicare.
The risk of developing an eye condition increases as people enter their forties, while people who smoke, have diabetes, have a family history of eye disease, or are of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent are also at increased risk of eye disease.
Quotes attributable to Vision 2020 Australia CEO Judith Abbott:
“This World Sight Day, it’s never been more important for people to look after their eye health, even during a pandemic.
“While 2020 has been a challenging year for Australians’ health, optometrists and other eye health professionals are open and continuing to offer care to people who need it.
“Approximately 90% of vision loss is preventable or treatable if identified early, so if you notice a change in your vision, don’t delay seeking treatment, and if you have an existing eye condition, it’s important to continue receiving care.
Quotes attribute to Chair of Vision 2020 Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Committee and ophthalmologist Dr Kris Rallah-Baker:
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience higher rates of vision loss, but we know much of this can be prevented if we detect problems early.”
“On World Sight Day, we want to remind communities that a simple eye test can make a big difference.
“If you notice a change in your vision, or if you have diabetes or are over 40, please get regular eye checks.
“The year 2020 is a perfect time for all of us to commit to action to prevent avoidable vision loss and improve opportunities and support for Australians who experience permanent vision loss.”
ENDS
Media contact: Ben Jessup 0410 632 123 or bjessup@vision2020australia.org.au